Public-facing bio and quick update on the National League (sports and more)
Woking FC has parted ways with manager Jermain Defoe by mutual consent, ending a four-month spell after the club’s season preparations. Directors say concerns across staff and players prompted the decision, with no direct concerns raised by Defoe.
Arsenal’s young prospects are set to feature more in the 2026-27 season, with Dowman and Salmon highlighted as early breakthroughs, while Villa, Bournemouth and Brentford push their own youth paths and market interest grows around Abdul Abdulmalik and Milambo.
Following the death of Billy Vigar, the FA has updated Stadium Accreditation criteria to ban solid brick, breeze block or concrete barriers around pitches in the National League system for men and women. Clubs must remove or cover existing barriers “as soon as reasonably practicable.” The Premier League Stadium Fund will provide funding to support the changes. Matches may continue during the transition as clubs assess safety.