Andy Whing is leading a major rebuild at Brackley Town as the club prepares for its return to the National League North following relegation from the National League. The part-time side suffered a swift drop after one season in non-league’s top tier, with Whing emphasizing the need for a younger, more dynamic squad to reinvigorate the team’s prospects.

After securing promotion in 2025 under former manager Gavin Cowan, Brackley Town struggled to adapt to the demands of a predominantly full-time National League and ultimately finished the season with just one win in Whing’s 16 games in charge. The latter took over from Cowan in February but was unable to prevent the immediate relegation.

In response, Whing has opted for a significant overhaul of the playing staff. So far, only defender Kyle Morrison and forward Matt Lowe remain from the previous campaign. Whing has brought in players with strong non-league credentials, including midfielder Charlie Cooper, who won promotion at this level with Kidderminster last season, striker Tahvon Campbell, and fullback Kieran Coates, a former champion with AFC Fylde.

“We had the oldest team in the league last season but we are completely different now—young, dynamic and athletic,” Whing said, noting the change was necessary for the club’s future. He expressed satisfaction with the club’s support in allowing him to reshape the squad and a desire to foster a dressing room culture aligned with his vision.

He also acknowledged the challenges of building the team, explaining that recruitment had not been rushed, as he prefers measured decisions over bringing in players who might not fit the desired profile. Whing reflected on the previous squad’s average age of 29 and the feeling within the dressing room, which he described as less competitive than he would have liked. While recognizing some positive individual characters who remained from last season, he maintained that the overall mentality did not match his expectations.

Whing, 41, arrived at Brackley Town after being dismissed by EFL side Barrow, admitting that experience contributed to a difficult period for him. However, he conveyed a renewed sense of purpose as he undertakes the challenge of rebuilding the team.

“I had a tough six months,” Whing said, “but now I’ve got a spring in my step again.” With a restructured squad and a focus on youth and energy, Brackley Town aims to compete strongly in the National League North and work towards returning to higher levels of non-league football.