Widdrington leaves Eastbourne Borough - and club are considering return to part-time squad
Eastbourne Borough have parted company with boss Tommy Widdrington – just four months after his return to Priory Lane.
Widdrington’s second spell as Borough manager has come to a quick end with the Sports back on the bottom of the National South and looking increasingly likely to play in the Isthmian League next season.
Borough are even talking about switching back to a part-time squad model, having gone full-time after Simon Leslie took over the reins in 2023.
Widdrington took over in mid-October after a poor start to the campaign that cost Matt Gray – himself only appointed last May after Adam Murray’s decision to leave – his job.
Since Widdrington returned, Borough have played 23 league games – winning six, drawing two but losing 15.
A 7-0 loss at Torquay was a low point of his tenure, though it was quickly followed by a 6-0 home victory ove Hampton, while away wins at Dover and Tonbridge – and a recent 3-1 home success over Maidstone – offered hope Widdrington, who won the FA Trophy last season as Aldershot boss, turn it around.
It seems a 1-0 loss at Chesham on Tuesday night was the final straw.
A club statement said: “The Board acknowledges that recent results, one win in eight, and a number of performances have been below the standards expected at this football club.
"We are disappointed with the current situation and recognise the seriousness of our league position. As a result, we have decided to part company with Tommy Widdrington and Hugo Langton.
"With 13 matches remaining, we will continue to push for safety. That fight is not over. However, it would be negligent not to prepare responsibly for every eventuality.
"We know how difficult it is to recover from relegation, and the scale of the investment - financially, emotionally and strategically - that has brought us to this level, should have delivered a better outcome.
"Tommy was provided with the resources he requested. Injuries have undoubtedly disrupted momentum, but difficult circumstances are part of football at this level, particularly when operating under sustained pressure.
"The players fought until the 100th minute last night and their effort cannot be questioned. But effort alone is not enough. With 13 games remaining, we must act decisively and in the long-term interests of the club.
"Planning has now begun for all scenarios, including the potential transition to part-time football and building a squad capable of competing for promotion should that be required. Our responsibility is to protect the stability, sustainability and competitive future of this club.
"We are aware of the reaction after recent fixtures. There will be no further comment at this time.”
Widdrington was the fourth manager to serve Borough under the current owners – following on from their first appointment Mark Beard plus Murray and Gray.
It is not known who will take charge before a new boss is appointed but coach Robbie Blake is still at the club and women’s team manager Chris Day took temporary charge last time the Sports were between bosses.