Elliott Dickman named Manager until 2026

South Shields Football Club are delighted to announce that Head Coach Elliott Dickman has signed a two-year deal with the Club, making him the permanent manager.

Assistant Coach Andy Inness also pens a two-year deal as a part of Dickman’s backroom staff.

Dickman was appointed Interim Head Coach at the Club in December 2023 and steadied the ship during a turbulent period of the season and helped the Club to a historic eighth-place finish in the Vanarama National League North.

Supporters and players alike have been quick to praise Dickman’s style of play and his attitude towards the Club, with many urging the 45-year-old to stay with the First Team permanently.

Club Chairman Geoff Thompson has labelled the appointment as ‘very positive’ and ‘exciting’, as he believes that Dickman is the right person to take the team forward on the pitch during this transitional period at the Club.

Dickman is also pleased to be taking the role on full-time:

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Geoff, all club staff, the players, and backroom team for all their support and excellent work during my time as interim manager.

It is a real honour and a privilege for me and my family, to now be confirmed as first-team manager of our fantastic football club. Both Andy and I are really grateful and excited for this opportunity.

I would like to give a special mention and thanks to the players and backroom team. Without their hard work and efforts, none of this would have materialised for us, and we are really grateful for their full support.

I also would like to thank Geoff for putting his trust in us to help continue to develop and improve our club. Your backing means everything to us all.

Finally, our brilliant fans. You have been excellent and have been behind the team both home and away. We do truly value all your support and we hope we can continue to pay you back by improving upon our first season in the National League North.”

Dickman looks to go one better than last season and is positive for the years ahead.