Matt Gray, the former Sutton United boss who famously led the club to their first-ever promotion to the English Football League (EFL), has been appointed as the new manager of National League side Eastleigh. The move marks a fresh chapter for Gray, who brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the Spitfires.
Gray's appointment comes after a turbulent season for Eastleigh. The club parted ways with Scott Bartlett in February, leaving Richard Hill to step in as interim manager. Hill steadied the ship, guiding Eastleigh to a 17th-place finish in the National League—eight points clear of the relegation zone. Now, the club is looking to build on that stability with a manager who knows what it takes to compete at this level and beyond.
Gray's tenure at Sutton United was nothing short of remarkable. Over four years at the helm, he masterminded the club's historic promotion to the EFL in 2021, a milestone that will forever be etched in Sutton's history. He also led the U's to the EFL Trophy final in 2022, showcasing his ability to inspire his squad in high-stakes moments. After leaving Sutton in December 2023, Gray had a brief stint at National League South side Eastbourne Borough at the start of the 2025-26 campaign, but he's now ready to take on a new challenge.
Speaking about his new role, Gray said in a club statement: "This is a proper football club, and it is one with excellent off-the-pitch facilities. Hopefully, we will be able to match that with performances on the pitch." His words hint at a manager eager to blend infrastructure with on-field grit—a combination that could be the key to Eastleigh's ambitions.
For fans of the National League, this appointment adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming season. Gray's experience in navigating the pressures of non-league football, coupled with his knack for building competitive teams, makes him a solid choice for Eastleigh. As the club looks to climb the table, all eyes will be on how Gray translates his past successes into a new chapter at the Silverlake Stadium.