Michael Doyle: Woking name ex-Sheffield United midfielder as new manager

Michael Doyle left Forest Green Rovers, along with head coach Ian Burchnall, in January

Woking have appointed former Coventry City and Sheffield United midfielder Michael Doyle as their new manager.

The 42-year-old was previously assistant head coach at Notts County and Forest Green Rovers.

And he has left a job with Portsmouth's academy to replace Darrell Sarll, who was sacked on 13 November.

"We had the option to be safe or to be bold, and we took the decision to be bold with this appointment," said chief executive John Katz.

"Michael is a young, ambitious, and dynamic manager, and our decision to be bold represents what this club needs to regain - ambition and dynamism.

"We believe in his track record of success in the Football League, how he wants his Woking team to play, and his plan to move the club forward."

Dublin-born Doyle made 866 senior appearances during his playing career, which also included spells at Celtic and Notts County.

He spent a season on loan at Leeds United in 2009-10 and helped them win promotion from League One.

Doyle has agreed a contract to the end of the 2024-25 season and interim boss Ian Dyer will remain at Woking as his number two, along with goalkeeping coach Marlon Beresford.

Woking are 17th in National League following Saturday's 2-1 victory at Dorking Wanderers, a game Doyle watched from the stands.

"It was an important result first and foremost after the loss in midweek. There's plenty to build on now going into next week and through the remainder of the season," said Doyle.

"Woking is a great club with a rich history. I'm looking forward to working with Ian, the backroom staff, players and the people behind the scenes."