Poole and Southport Appoint Managers, Woking Suffer Injury Blow
Thursday 29 October brought two managerial appointments, a serious injury setback and a couple of new arrivals across the non-league game. Here's a look at five of the day's stories.
Poole Town appoint Josh Staunton as permanent manager
Poole Town have confirmed Josh Staunton as their permanent first-team manager following a successful spell in interim charge. Staunton stepped into the role following the departures of joint managers Joe Lea and Pat Suraci earlier this month and has impressed the club's board with the way he has handled the transition.
Steve Rutter will work alongside him as assistant manager.
In a statement, Poole's board praised Staunton for steadying the ship and maintaining a positive atmosphere within the dressing room. The Dolphins are currently second in the Southern League Premier Division South, just one point behind leaders Uxbridge.
The appointment provides some stability after an eventful few weeks at the club, with Lea and Suraci having subsequently taken charge at Havant & Waterlooville.
Southport appoint Calum McIntyre
Southport have appointed former Chester boss Calum McIntyre as their new manager, following the departure of Mark Duffy earlier this month. The 33-year-old arrives at Haig Avenue with considerable National League North experience, having spent almost four years managing Chester.
Appointed in May 2022, McIntyre guided the Blues to two play-off campaigns, including the 2024/25 final, and recorded the club's highest points totals in more than a decade. He also led Chester to the FA Cup First Round Proper twice and oversaw a club-record run of 23 unbeaten away league matches.
McIntyre was named National League North Manager of the Year in 2023 and collected three Manager of the Month awards during his time at Chester. Speaking following his appointment, McIntyre made his ambitions clear.
"This is an incredible football club, and that's why I jumped at the opportunity. We know exactly where we want to take the club, and the ambition here really appealed to me."
He added: "I want to win, and I'll never apologise for that."