Former Premier League star Kevin Nolan appointed Northampton Town manager

Former Premier League midfielder Kevin Nolan has been appointed as the new manager of Northampton Town, the club have confirmed.

Nolan, now 42, made more than 400 Premier League appearances, scoring 69 goals, for the likes of Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle and West Ham.

After spells in charge at Leyton Orient and Notts County, Nolan recently joined the Hammers’ coaching staff but left after David Moyes was sacked in May.

Nolan has now signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at Northampton, who are currently 20th in League One. He replaces Jon Brady, who stepped down three weeks ago.

✍️ We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Kevin Nolan as Northampton Town manager.

Welcome to the Cobblers, Kevin! 👋 #ShoeArmy 👞 https://t.co/iOi0NYIg7t

— Northampton Town (@ntfc) December 23, 2024

In a statement, Northampton chairman Kelvin Thomas said: “Kevin was very impressive throughout the process and showed a real desire for the job.

“He has done well under difficult circumstances in his two previous management jobs and impressed us with his knowledge, energy, experience and passion. He showed real enthusiasm and enthusiasm for the role, couldn’t wait to get started and has already taken charge of training for the first time.

“Our immediate focus is to try and move up the table and while we understand we have challenges to overcome, we believe Kevin is well placed to progress in that.”

Nolan himself added: “I’m delighted to be appointed as the new manager of Northampton Town and can’t wait to get started. We have a busy schedule over the Christmas and New Year period so the challenge is to hit the ground running as best we can .

“The club has a good reputation in the game as a well-run club and it is clear that they have progressed on and off the pitch in recent seasons. I am proud and honored to have the opportunity to try to continue and develop this work.

“I believe that the squad can move up the table and I am determined to return the faith that the board of directors has shown in me.

“We have no time to lose, maybe it will be Christmas, but we have a lot of work to do in a short time and I hope the fans will join us as we begin our journey. We will need your support and I can promise you that we will do everything we can to turn the results around.”

Nolan begins his tenure at Northampton with a trip to Reading on Christmas Day.