Former Sunderland striker appointed Aberbargoed Buds manager

Aberbargoed Buds have appointed Sean Wharton as their new first-team manager following Matt Driscoll’s departure.

Wharton, was most recently the manager of Barry Town United’s Women’s team, until he was stood down from his post. He had also managed Abergavenny Town and led the Penniers to the Ardal South East title the last time he managed in the division.

A club statement read: “The Buds are delighted to confirm that Sean Wharton has accepted our invitation to become our manager for the season 2023/24 as we resume our position in the Ardal South East League. 

“Sean, an FAW A licence coach, brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to the club. He comes with an ambition to match that of our own. Welcome, Sean, you have our full support.”

As a player, he featured for Cwmbran Town in Europe and also featured for Sunderland, as well as Inter Cardiff, who are now known as Cardiff Met. 

Wharton’s predecessor Driscoll led the Buds to the Gwent Premier Division title after a closely anticipated title race with Abercarn United and also claimed the Gwent County FA Senior Cup. He has been appointed manager of Cinderford Town in England, who play in the ninth tier of English football.

Explaining his decision to leave Aberbargoed, he said: “The attraction of joining the English pyramid again, but now as a manager is something I’ve always wanted to do.  

“Being back at the club just reminded me how it’s a proper football club – I just got the feeling this could be something special like years previously.”

(Pics by John Smith/Same Old Smith Photography/FAW)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *