Long-serving Northampton Town manager Josh Oldfield resigns after six years in post

Josh Oldfield
Josh Oldfield (Northampton Town)

Northampton Town manager Josh Oldfield has resigned after six years in post, during which he led the team to their current fourth-tier status in the FA Women’s National League Division One Midlands.

The team’s roll of honour under his charge includes promotion from the East Midlands Women’s Regional Football League Premier Division in 2021-22, going unbeaten, and a trio of Northamptonshire FA Women’s Cups.

According to club statistics, Oldfield’s record includes 139 wins in 210 matches played.

Northampton finished second in the league last season, but are currently tenth, just outside the relegation zone, after six games played.

In a quote via the club’s official website, Oldfield explained his decision: “While I am sad to be leaving the role, I feel it’s the right time for all involved, including my young family.

“It has been an honour and a privilege. I have loved every minute over the last six years – the tough times and the amazing memories. I am incredibly proud of the way we have helped move female football at Northampton Town forward such a long way.

“I would like to thank all of the players and the staff I have worked with for everything that they have given. I am proud to have worked with you all. I would also like to thank all of the sponsors, supporters and everyone at the club for their help and support.

“I will remain at the club within the football and education programme where I will continue to work with the players within the pathway.”

Northampton Town – “unrivalled success”

Scott Loughran, head of women’s football operations at Northampton Town, added: “Josh has been a hugely important figure in our fantastic progress over the last few years.

“His drive, his enthusiasm, and his leadership have all been instrumental factors in taking Northampton Town Women to the highest level we have ever played at and that is a huge credit to Josh.

“He leaves with nothing but our admiration and our thanks for everything he did, and a lot of our unrivalled success over the last few years was down to Josh.

“Josh has a very young family and as you rise through the levels, what is already a very full-on role can become even more so and we completely understand and respect his decision.”

Northampton Town’s next match is in the first round of the Women’s FA Cup, when they host AFC Sudbury on Sunday.

Upcoming Events

Would you like to read more women’s football news just like this? Sign up to receive the She Kicks Women’s Football newsletter

About Carrie Dunn 265 Articles
Carrie Dunn is a women's football writer. Her book 'Unsuitable for Females' was shortlisted for Football Book of the Year at the 2023 Sports Book Awards, and more recently 'Woman Up' was nominated for the 2024 Vikki Orvice Award for Women's Sport Writing. Her newest book 'Flying the Flag: The Footballing Heroines of the Home Nations Who Made History Abroad' is out now.