Former Sunderland, Wolves and Hearts star takes on first managerial role after ‘illustrious’ playing career
The former forward’s past clubs include Wolves, Hearts, and Sunderland.
Wexford, a League of Ireland First Division team, has hired a former Hearts, Sunderland Wolves star as their manager.
After coaching at Darlington, Fleetwood Town, and St Pat’s since retiring, Stephen Elliot has assumed his first managerial position in the senior league. In addition to leading the Saints’ U20 team, he was named Head of Academy and was now given leadership of Wexford.
Before a successful stint with Sunderland, when he made 88 appearances and scored 23 goals, Elliot began his career at Man City. Before becoming ingrained in Hearts legend by participating in the 2012 Scottish Cup final against Hibs, which the Jambos famously won, he had permanent stints at Wolves and Preston.
He spent two years at Tynecastle from 2010 to 2012 and is currently in charge of management. First and foremost, Elliott expressed his gratitude to everyone at the football club for giving him the chance to lead the first team for the first time.
“I am thrilled and honoured to have the chance to manage and represent Wexford FC in the future. The enthusiasm, drive, and skill of our young players will play a significant role in this football team’s future.
Working with a young team fascinates me because it’s about creating a legacy that extends from the academy to the first team, not simply about developing individuals. I want to establish an atmosphere where young players understand what is expected of them at the first team level and where older players set the tone by setting an example.”We want the players in this academy to understand that they have a genuine chance to succeed at Wexford FC.” Our shared goal is to instill a culture of opportunity, perseverance, and faith that permeates the club’s fundamental foundation.
“As Head of Football Operations, I am thrilled to welcome Stephen Elliott as our new senior men’s team head coach,” said John Godkin, head of football for Wexford FC. More significantly, Stephen has spent his time learning and honing his coaching and managerial skills since hanging up his boots. He has had a distinguished playing career at the club and national levels, working with and under some of the greatest football players.
“Exciting times lie ahead, and we are all excited to help Stephen take advantage of his new opportunity at Wexford FC.” We also want to express our gratitude to the selection panel for their professionalism throughout the process and to all of the applicants for the position.
“Wexford FC is pleased to announce the appointment of former Republic of Ireland international Stephen Elliott as the new First Team Manager,” the club said in a statement. Ahead of the forthcoming season, Elliott, who has a plethora of knowledge from both his coaching and playing duties, will assume leadership.
With clubs like Manchester City, Sunderland, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, Elliott had a stellar playing career and was capped nine times for Ireland. He moved into coaching after retiring from professional football, having a notable influence in a number of positions, most recently as Head of Academy Football at St. Patrick’s Athletic.
Elliott is a fervent supporter of youth development and has a remarkable history of spotting and developing young potential. He was instrumental in helping academy players achieve first-team success while he was at St. Patrick’s Athletic by putting a strong emphasis on professionalism, skill development, and tactical awareness. Wexford FC is thrilled to see how his commitment to nurturing young players helps the team’s own up-and-coming talents flourish.