Hereford FC has officially appointed Aaron Downes as the club’s new first team manager. His contract is set to run until the conclusion of the 2026 National League North season. Downes brings a wealth of experience from his 15-year playing career, during which he made over 350 senior appearances.
Aaron Downes’ Background
Downes played for several clubs, including Chesterfield, Bristol Rovers, Torquay United, and Cheltenham Town. Transitioning into management, he served as Gary Johnson’s Assistant Manager at Torquay in 2018. In February 2024, he took on the role of Interim Manager at Torquay, where he successfully guided the team away from the relegation zone despite facing challenges such as an 11-point deduction and a transfer embargo.
Recent Coaching Experience
More recently, Downes was the assistant to Mike Flynn at Cheltenham Town from June 2024 until September 2025. He departed when Steve Cotterill was appointed as the new manager. Now, Downes is set to enhance Hereford’s squad with the addition of Harry Pell, a former Hereford United midfielder, to his coaching staff. He hopes to retain Adam Rooney and Shaun Edwards in their respective roles as Player Coach and Goalkeeping Coach.
Chairman’s Comments
Chris Ammonds, the Bulls Chairman, expressed his excitement about Downes’ appointment. He praised Downes’ extensive experience and his proven track record of energizing teams in difficult situations, noting his impressive candidacy during the selection process.
- Downes showcased his commitment by presenting a detailed strategy for the upcoming season.
- He has extensively analyzed the team’s performances and is ready to implement changes.
- The club plans to support Downes in refreshing the player roster in the near future.
Downes’ Vision for Hereford FC
Reacting to his new role, Downes expressed his gratitude and excitement, stating that it is a privilege to start at Hereford FC. He indicated that he has been eagerly awaiting the right managerial opportunity, particularly when the role at Hereford became available. He acknowledged the current season’s challenges but remains optimistic about the potential for improvement.
Downes emphasized the importance of collective effort, stating, “With some adjustments to our tactics and a few strategic additions, we can move up the table.” He acknowledged the passionate support from Hereford’s fans, reinforcing his belief that unity can help the team secure vital points in the upcoming fixtures.
Looking Ahead
With 21 games remaining in the season, Downes is determined to ensure that Hereford FC maintains its position in the National League North for the 2026/27 season. His leadership will be crucial as the team looks to rebound and strive for success in the remainder of the campaign.
