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Danny Kedwell
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Daniel Trevor Kedwell (born 3 August 1983) is an English former footballer who played as a forward. He has spent most of his career playing non-League football, but played in League One and Two during a four-year spell with Gillingham, his hometown club. He is manager of Isthmian League South East Division club AFC Croydon Athletic.
Key Information
Career
[edit]Non-League
[edit]Born in Gillingham, Kent,[1] Kedwell came through the youth system of Kent-based Chatham Town and played one season for the club before joining Tonbridge Angels in the summer of 2002. His spell at the Longmead Stadium was short-lived when in October 2002 he signed for Fisher Athletic and stayed with the side until January 2003. He had a short spell at Lordswood before joining Maidstone United in the summer of 2003, staying until the end of the following season. Kedwell then signed for Kent League side Herne Bay where he was the top scorer that season finishing with 28 goals in all competitions.[3] This attracted the attention of Conference South side Welling United, who signed the striker in the summer. Kedwell enjoyed two seasons at Welling, scoring 38 league goals, and made a further step up in 2007 when he signed for Conference side Grays Athletic for £12,000, a club record.[4] He spent one full season at the Essex club scoring 13 league goals, and at the end of the season he dropped down a division when he signed for AFC Wimbledon for £10,000. Whilst at the south-west London club, Kedwell found some of the best scoring form of his career, and scored 67 goals in three seasons.[5]
League
[edit]Kedwell scored the winning penalty in the 2011 Conference Premier play-off final penalty shoot-out against Luton Town to send AFC Wimbledon into the Football League.[6] On 1 July 2011, he signed for League Two side Gillingham, his hometown club, for a fee of £60,000.[7] He made his league debut for Gillingham on 6 August in a 1–0 win over Cheltenham Town at Priestfield Stadium.[8] He finished his first season with the Gills as the club's top scorer with a total of 14 goals, 12 of which came in the league.
Kedwell was made captain of Gillingham for their first competitive game of the 2012–13 season in the League Cup against Bristol City.[9] He began the league campaign in with eight goals in the Gills' first ten league matches. Kedwell also managed to score the goal that secured promotion in a 1–0 home victory over Torquay United and scored in a 2–2 draw against his old side AFC Wimbledon which secured the league title for Gillingham.[10][11] He finished the season once again as the club's top goal scorer, scoring 16 goals in all competitions, 14 of which helped the Gills to win the League Two championship.[12] On 12 May 2014, Kedwell signed a new two-year deal with the "Gills".[13]
Return to Non-League
[edit]On 6 January 2015, Kedwell signed an 18-month contract with Conference South side Ebbsfleet United.[14] While with the side he featured in two play-off finals. Kedwell scored two goals in the 2015–16 play-off final but missed the decisive penalty in the shootout as Ebbsfleet lost to Maidstone United.[15] Promotion to the National League was achieved the following season with a 2–1 play-off final win over Chelmsford City.[16]
Kedwell joined Havant & Waterlooville for the 2019–20 season, scoring 11 goals in 26 league appearances before the season was halted in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[17] He was released as a free agent in July 2020.
On 13 August 2020, Kedwell joined Southern Counties East Premier Division side Hollands & Blair.[18] In November 2020, with Blair's league suspended, Kedwell returned to Havant & Waterlooville before their league was curtailed in February 2021.[19]
Following his player-manager role with Cray Wanderers, Kedwell returned to the Southern Counties East Premier Division to join Chatham Town on 31 December 2021, the club he was at as a junior.[20] Following promotion to the Isthmian League, Kedwell went into the 2022–23 season in the role of assistant manager.[21] On 13 May 2024, the club confirmed that Kedwell had departed Chatham.[22]
Coaching career
[edit]On 10 April 2021, Kedwell began his first job in management when he was appointed manager of Cray Wanderers.[23] On 28 December 2021, Kedwell left this role by mutual consent.[24]
On 14 May 2024, Kedwell was announced as manager of Isthmian League South East Division club Ashford United.[25] He departed the club by mutual consent in January 2025[26] and shortly afterwards joined the coaching staff of Folkestone Invicta.[27]
On 14 February 2025, Kedwell was appointed manager of Isthmian League South East Division side AFC Croydon Athletic.[28]
Career statistics
[edit]- As of 19 January 2025
| Club | Season | League | FA Cup | League Cup | Other | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Welling United | 2005–06[29] | Conference South | 31 | 19 | 1 | 0 | — | 32 | 19 | |||
| 2006–07[30] | Conference South | 39 | 19 | — | 6[b] | 3 | 45 | 22 | ||||
| Total | 70 | 38 | 1 | 0 | — | 6 | 3 | 77 | 41 | |||
| Grays Athletic | 2007–08[31] | Conference Premier | 42 | 13 | 2 | 0 | — | 5[c] | 2 | 49 | 15 | |
| 2008–09[31] | Conference Premier | 8 | 0 | — | — | — | 8 | 0 | ||||
| Total | 50 | 13 | 2 | 0 | — | 5 | 2 | 57 | 15 | |||
| AFC Wimbledon | 2008–09[32] | Conference South | 34 | 14 | 6 | 2 | — | 1[b] | 0 | 41 | 16 | |
| 2009–10[32] | Conference Premier | 39 | 21 | 3 | 1 | — | 3[b] | 2 | 45 | 24 | ||
| 2010–11[32] | Conference Premier | 45 | 23 | 4 | 0 | — | 5[d] | 3 | 54 | 26 | ||
| Total | 118 | 58 | 13 | 3 | — | 9 | 5 | 140 | 66 | |||
| Gillingham | 2011–12[33] | League Two | 40 | 12 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1[e] | 0 | 46 | 14 |
| 2012–13[34] | League Two | 38 | 14 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 42 | 16 | |
| 2013–14[35] | League One | 27 | 10 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1[e] | 0 | 30 | 10 | |
| 2014–15[36] | League One | 14 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1[e] | 0 | 18 | 5 | |
| Total | 119 | 40 | 8 | 4 | 6 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 136 | 45 | ||
| Ebbsfleet United | 2014–15[37] | Conference South | 13 | 3 | — | — | 4[b] | 2 | 17 | 5 | ||
| 2015–16[37] | National League South | 40 | 11 | 2 | 0 | — | 5[f] | 4 | 47 | 15 | ||
| 2016–17[37] | National League South | 34 | 12 | 3 | 1 | — | 6[g] | 0 | 43 | 13 | ||
| 2017–18[37] | National League | 45 | 18 | 3 | 1 | — | 5[h] | 1 | 53 | 20 | ||
| 2018–19[37] | National League | 42 | 13 | 3 | 0 | — | 1[b] | 0 | 46 | 13 | ||
| Total | 174 | 57 | 11 | 2 | — | 21 | 7 | 206 | 66 | |||
| Havant & Waterlooville | 2019–20 | National League South | 26 | 11 | 3 | 0 | — | 1[b] | 1 | 30 | 12 | |
| Hollands & Blair | 2020–21 | Southern Counties East Premier Division | 11 | 4 | 1 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 12 | 4 | |
| Havant & Waterlooville | 2020–21 | National League South | 8 | 1 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 8 | 1 | |
| Cray Wanderers | 2021–22 | Isthmian League Premier Division | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | — | 1[b] | 0 | 5 | 1 | |
| Chatham Town | 2021–22[38] | Southern Counties East Premier Division | 12 | 1 | — | — | 0 | 0 | 12 | 1 | ||
| 2022–23[39] | Isthmian League South East Division | 7 | 1 | 1 | 0 | — | 3[i] | 0 | 11 | 1 | ||
| 2023–24[40] | Isthmian League Premier Division | 14 | 3 | 0 | 0 | — | 2[j] | 1 | 16 | 4 | ||
| Total | 33 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 1 | 39 | 6 | ||
| Ashford United | 2024–25[41] | Isthmian League South East Division | 8 | 2 | 3 | 0 | — | 2[k] | 0 | 13 | 2 | |
| Career total | 620 | 230 | 44 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 53 | 19 | 723 | 259 | ||
- ^ Wimbledon record includes the appearance against Chester City on 31 October 2009, a match which was later expunged following Chester's expulsion from the league
- ^ a b c d e f g Appearance(s) in FA Trophy
- ^ Three appearances and two goals in FA Trophy, two in Conference League Cup
- ^ Three appearances and one goal in Conference Premier play-offs, two appearances and two goals in FA Trophy
- ^ a b c Appearance in Football League Trophy
- ^ Three appearances and three goals in National League South play-offs, two appearances and one goal in FA Trophy
- ^ Three appearances in National League South play-offs, three in FA Trophy
- ^ Two appearances in National League play-offs, three appearances and one goal in FA Trophy
- ^ One appearance in FA Trophy and two appearances in Alan Turvey Trophy
- ^ Appearance(s) in Alan Turvey Trophy
- ^ One appearance in FA Trophy and one in Kent Senior Cup
Managerial statistics
[edit]- As of 25 January 2026
| Team | From | To | Record | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P | W | D | L | GF | GA | Win % | |||
| Cray Wanderers | 10 April 2021 | 28 December 2021 | 19 | 4 | 3 | 12 | 23 | 38 | 21.05 |
| Ashford United[42] | 14 May 2024 | 20 January 2025 | 39 | 18 | 6 | 15 | 72 | 69 | 46.15 |
| AFC Croydon Athletic | 14 February 2025 | Current | 51 | 29 | 6 | 16 | 104 | 69 | 56.86 |
| Total | 109 | 51 | 15 | 43 | 199 | 176 | 46.79 | ||
Honours
[edit]AFC Wimbledon
- Conference Premier play-offs: 2010–11[6]
Gillingham
Ebbsfleet United
- National League South play-offs: 2016–17[16]
Chatham Town
Individual
- AFC Wimbledon Player of the Season: 2009–10[43]
- AFC Wimbledon Team of the Decade (2010s)[44]
- Conference Premier Team of the Year: 2010–11
- National League South Team of the Year: 2016–17
References
[edit]- ^ a b c Brown, Tony; Joyce, Michael; Longbottom, David, eds. (2013). English National Football Archive Yearbook 2013. Tony Brown. p. 136. ISBN 978-1-905891-62-7.
- ^ "Danny Kedwell". 11v11.com. AFS Enterprises. Retrieved 20 October 2017.
- ^ "NonLeagueDaily Profile". 6 August 2011. Archived from the original on 4 October 2012. Retrieved 6 August 2011.
- ^ "Kedwell joins Grays". 7 May 2007. Archived from the original on 4 October 2012. Retrieved 6 August 2011.
- ^ "AFC Wimbledon profile". 6 August 2011. Archived from the original on 19 July 2012. Retrieved 6 August 2011.
- ^ a b "AFC W'don 0-0 Luton (4-3 on pens)". BBC Sport. Retrieved 14 May 2022.
- ^ "Hawks sign former Ebbsfleet, Gillingham and AFC Wimbledon striker Danny Kedwell".
- ^ "Gillingham 1–0 Cheltenham". 6 August 2011. Retrieved 6 August 2011.
- ^ "Bristol City 1 Gillingham 2". 14 August 2011. Retrieved 20 August 2011.
- ^ "Gills v Torquay report". Kent Online. 6 April 2013. Retrieved 14 May 2022.
- ^ a b "Draw points the way for Gillingham's title". ITV News. 20 April 2013. Retrieved 14 May 2022.
- ^ "Danny Kedwell | Football Stats | Havant & Waterlooville | Age 37 | Soccer Base".
- ^ "Danny Kedwell Gillingham FC Contract". Gillingham FC. 12 May 2014.
- ^ "Oh Danny Boy! Fleet capture Kedwell".
- ^ Tucker, Craig (14 May 2016). "Stones win thriller on spot-kicks". Kent Online. Retrieved 14 May 2022.
- ^ a b Tervet, Steve (13 May 2017). "Ebbsfleet United 2 Chelmsford City 1 National League South play-off final match report". Kent Online. Retrieved 14 May 2022.
- ^ Ebbsfleet United striker Danny Kedwell joins Havant & Waterlooville, kentonline.co.uk, 1 July 2019
- ^ "Danny Kedwell joins Hollands & Blair". scefl.com. 13 August 2020. Retrieved 2 January 2022.
- ^ Tucker, Craig (9 November 2020). "Former Gillingham striker Danny Kedwell explains why he's left Hollands & Blair to rejoin Havant & Waterlooville". Kent Online. Retrieved 2 January 2022.
- ^ Cawdell, Luke (31 December 2021). "Chatham Town sign former Gillingham players Danny Kedwell and Dean Beckwith". Kent Online. Retrieved 2 January 2022.
- ^ @ChathamTownFC (13 June 2022). "The club can confirm the managerial structure for the 2022/23 season will see Danny Kedwell & Tim Moffatt support Manager Kevin Hake as Assistant and First Team Coach respectively. Player News to follow in the weeks leading up to pre-season✍️ #UpTheChats" (Tweet). Retrieved 15 June 2022 – via Twitter.
- ^ "DANNY KEDWELL DEPARTS CHATHAM TOWN". www.chathamtownfc.com. 13 May 2024. Retrieved 13 May 2024.
- ^ Cray Wanderers announce appointment of Danny Kedwell as new manager Cray Wanderers FC. 10 April 2021. Retrieved 10 April 2021.
- ^ "CRAY WANDERERS ANNOUNCE DEPARTURE OF DANNY KEDWELL". cray-wanderers.com. 28 December 2021. Retrieved 2 January 2022.
- ^ "ASHFORD APPOINT DANNY KEDWELL AS NEW MANAGER". www.ashfordunitedfc.com. 14 May 2024. Retrieved 14 May 2024.
- ^ Tucker, Craig (20 January 2025). "Ashford United manager Danny Kedwell leaves Homelands by mutual consent after eight months". Kent Online. Retrieved 21 January 2025.
- ^ Reeves, Thomas (30 January 2025). "Popular former Gillingham striker Danny Kedwell reunites with Andy Drury as part of Isthmian Premier club Folkestone Invicta's coaching staff following departure as Ashford United boss". Kent Online. Retrieved 14 February 2025.
- ^ Reeves, Thomas (18 February 2025). "Former Gillingham, AFC Wimbledon and Ebbsfleet United striker Danny Kedwell appointed the manager of AFC Croydon Athletic, the club owned by Wilfried Zaha and Stormzy, replacing Keith Millen". Kent Online. Retrieved 21 February 2025.
- ^ "D. Kedwell – 05/06". SoccerFactsUK. Archived from the original on 15 November 2017. Retrieved 14 November 2017.
- ^ "D. Kedwell – 05/06". SoccerFactsUK. Archived from the original on 24 March 2016. Retrieved 14 November 2017.
- ^ a b "D. Kedwell – Grays". Grays Athletic Online. Retrieved 14 November 2017.
- ^ a b c "D. Kedwell – AFC Wimbledon". AFC Wimbledon. Archived from the original on 15 November 2017. Retrieved 14 November 2017.
- ^ "Games played by Danny Kedwell in 2011/2012". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 14 November 2017.
- ^ "Games played by Danny Kedwell in 2012/2013". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 14 November 2017.
- ^ "Games played by Danny Kedwell in 2013/2014". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 14 November 2017.
- ^ "Games played by Danny Kedwell in 2014/2015". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 14 November 2017.
- ^ a b c d e "D. Kedwell". Soccerway. Perform Group. Retrieved 14 November 2017.
- ^ "Danny Kedwell – SCEFL". www.scefl.com. Retrieved 13 May 2024.
- ^ "Chatham Town – Appearances – Danny Kedwell – 2022-2023". www.footballwebpages.co.uk. Retrieved 13 May 2024.
- ^ "Chatham Town – Appearances – Danny Kedwell – 2023-2024". www.footballwebpages.co.uk. Retrieved 13 May 2024.
- ^ "Danny Kedwell: Player Profile". www.nutsandboltsarchive.co.uk. Retrieved 14 February 2025.
- ^ "Manager Profile: Danny Kedwell". www.nutsandboltsarchive.co.uk. Retrieved 14 February 2025.
- ^ Fitzjohn, Simon (21 April 2010). "Kedwell: Going full time will boost Dons". Sutton & Croydon Guardian. Retrieved 22 May 2022.
- ^ "Your Wimbledon team of the decade". afcwimbledon.co.uk. 25 March 2020. Retrieved 22 May 2022.
External links
[edit]- Danny Kedwell at Soccerbase
Danny Kedwell
View on GrokipediaPlaying career
Early non-league years (2001–2008)
Daniel Trevor Kedwell was born on 3 August 1983 in Gillingham, Kent.[1] He began his football journey progressing through the youth system at Chatham Town, a Kent-based non-league club, starting around age 15 in the early 2000s, where he scored prolifically as a centre-midfielder.[12] Kedwell transitioned to Chatham's senior team in the 2001–2002 season in the Isthmian League Division One, making his debut during this formative period before departing after one season.[13] In 2002, Kedwell joined Tonbridge Angels in the Isthmian League Premier Division, but his stay was brief, lasting only a few months.[14] By October 2002, he moved to Fisher Athletic in the same league, remaining until January 2003 when limited opportunities prompted another change.[13] A short spell followed at Lordswood in the Kent League during 2003, reflecting the instability of his early semi-professional career marked by frequent moves in pursuit of regular playing time.[15] Later that summer, he signed for Maidstone United in the Isthmian League Division One South, where he played until February 2004, exiting amid a dressing-room dispute with management that highlighted the challenges of lower-tier football.[15][16] Kedwell's development accelerated in 2004–2005 at Herne Bay in the Kent League, where he emerged as the club's top scorer with 28 goals across all competitions, showcasing his growing prowess as a forward.[13] This form earned him a move to Conference South side Welling United in 2005, where over two seasons from 2005 to 2007, he made 70 appearances and scored 38 goals, including 23 league goals in the 2006–07 campaign that saw him voted Conference South Player of the Month three times.[14] His consistent goal-scoring at Welling, despite the physical demands and part-time nature of non-league football, solidified his reputation in Kent's lower tiers. In 2007, Kedwell stepped up to Conference National club Grays Athletic for a reported £12,000 transfer fee, contributing 13 goals in 50 appearances during the 2007–2008 season amid the club's struggles.[17] These years underscored his resilience amid multiple club changes and limited resources, laying the foundation for future breakthroughs.[18]Rise with AFC Wimbledon and Grays Athletic (2008–2011)
Kedwell began the 2008–09 season at Grays Athletic in the Conference Premier, where he had joined the previous year, scoring seven goals in eight appearances before departing midway through the campaign. In September 2008, he transferred to AFC Wimbledon in the Conference South for a reported fee of £10,000, marking a step up in his profile within non-league football as the Dons sought to build a promotion-contending squad.[2] At AFC Wimbledon, Kedwell quickly established himself as a key forward under manager Terry Brown, forming a prolific partnership with striker Jon Main and becoming a consistent starter in the lineup. During the 2008–09 season, he contributed seven goals in 34 appearances across all competitions, helping the team secure promotion to the Conference Premier via the play-offs.[19] His scoring form escalated in the 2009–10 Conference South campaign, where he netted 21 league goals to finish as the club's top scorer, including a brace in a 2–1 victory over Kettering Town on 15 August 2009 that marked Wimbledon's first win of the season.[20] Over three seasons with the Dons, Kedwell amassed 118 appearances and 58 goals in all competitions, solidifying his reputation as a clinical finisher and leader in attack.[2] Kedwell's impact peaked in the 2010–11 Conference Premier season, where he again led Wimbledon as top scorer with 23 league goals, driving the team to a fourth-place finish and a spot in the promotion play-offs. In the semi-final against Fleetwood Town, he scored in the first leg of a 2–0 aggregate victory, setting up the final. On 21 May 2011, at Manchester City's Eastlands Stadium, Kedwell captained the side in the play-off final against Luton Town, which ended 0–0 after extra time; he then converted the decisive penalty in a 4–3 shootout win, securing AFC Wimbledon's return to the Football League after a nine-year absence and cementing his status as a club hero.[21][22]Gillingham in the Football League (2011–2015)
In June 2011, Danny Kedwell transferred from AFC Wimbledon to his hometown club Gillingham for an undisclosed fee, marking his entry into full-time professional football after captaining Wimbledon to promotion via the Conference play-offs the previous season.[23] Born and raised in Gillingham, the move fulfilled a lifelong ambition for the local supporter, who quickly became a fan favorite for his work rate and direct style. Over his four seasons at the club, spanning from July 2011 to January 2015, Kedwell made 136 appearances and scored 45 goals across all competitions.[24] During the 2011–12 League Two season, Kedwell established himself as Gillingham's top scorer with 12 league goals and 14 in all competitions, contributing significantly to a eighth-place finish that secured a play-off spot.[25] His goals helped the team reach the play-off semi-finals, where they were eliminated by Northampton Town over two legs (1–1 away, 1–3 home, aggregate 2–4). A notable moment came in December 2011, when Kedwell scored twice from the penalty spot in a 4–1 home win over Bristol Rovers, showcasing his clinical finishing.[26] His prior experience at Wimbledon, including 47 goals in 95 appearances, aided a smooth transition to league football, though he adapted to a more competitive environment.[27] Kedwell's form peaked in the 2012–13 season, as Gillingham won the League Two title and earned promotion to League One. He netted 14 league goals and 16 overall, including the decisive strike in a 1–0 home victory over Torquay United that confirmed promotion on 6 April 2013. Key contributions against rivals, such as goals in wins over Northampton Town (2–1 away) and Bradford City, underscored his importance to manager Martin Allen's attacking setup.[28] With 12 assists across his Gillingham career, primarily from 2011–13, Kedwell also showed playmaking ability, though disciplinary issues were minimal, accumulating just 18 yellow cards and no reds over four seasons.[29] In League One, Kedwell struggled to adapt, scoring 10 goals in 2013–14 amid a mid-table finish and 4 league goals in the first half of 2014–15 before his form and minor injuries limited his starts.[30] Appearances dwindled from 38 league games in 2013–14 to 14 in 2014–15, reflecting increased competition and tactical shifts under new management.[24] Despite signing a two-year extension in May 2014 to stay until 2016, mutual agreement led to his departure in January 2015 on a free transfer to Ebbsfleet United, ending his professional league stint.[31][32]| Season | League Apps (Goals) | Total Apps (Goals) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011–12 (League Two) | 40 (12) | 46 (14) | Top scorer; play-off semi-finalist |
| 2012–13 (League Two) | 38 (14) | 42 (16) | League champions; promotion clincher vs. Torquay |
| 2013–14 (League One) | 27 (10) | 30 (10) | Mid-table finish |
| 2014–15 (League One) | 14 (4) | 18 (5) | Departed mid-season |
Later non-league career (2015–2025)
Kedwell returned to non-league football by signing for Ebbsfleet United in the National League South on 6 January 2015, agreeing an 18-month contract following his departure from Gillingham.[33] Over the next four seasons, he made 206 appearances and scored 65 goals for the club, establishing himself as a key forward and captain whose consistent goal-scoring form was pivotal in their promotion push.[34] In the 2016–17 season, Ebbsfleet won the National League South play-offs, defeating Hampton & Richmond Borough 4–2 on aggregate in the semi-finals and Chelmsford City 2–1 in the final to secure promotion to the National League; Kedwell featured in both legs of the semi-final and started in the final, contributing to the triumph.[35][36][37] After leaving Ebbsfleet in June 2019, Kedwell joined Havant & Waterlooville in the National League South for the 2019–20 and 2020–21 seasons, where he recorded 34 appearances and 12 goals in total despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.[38] During the 2020–21 campaign, he had a brief loan spell at lower-tier side Hollands & Blair in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division, making 11 appearances and scoring 4 goals.[2] In 2021, Kedwell had a short playing stint at Cray Wanderers in the Isthmian League Premier Division, appearing in 3 matches and scoring 1 goal while transitioning into a player-manager role.[39] He then returned to Chatham Town from 2021 to 2024, featuring in 34 appearances and netting 5 goals as his playing time diminished due to the impact of age and recurring injuries. His final playing outing came at Ashford United in 2024, where as player-manager he made 8 appearances and scored 2 goals before shifting focus entirely to management.[1][40] Kedwell retired as a player in January 2025 following a mutual consent departure from Ashford United, bringing an end to a playing career that spanned over two decades in non-league and professional football.[7]Managerial and coaching career
Player-manager at Cray Wanderers (2021)
In April 2021, Danny Kedwell was appointed as the first-team manager of Cray Wanderers ahead of the 2021–22 season in the Isthmian League Premier Division, marking his entry into management while retaining his registration as a player. Holding a UEFA A Licence, Kedwell brought extensive experience as a prolific forward, having scored 249 career goals across various clubs including Gillingham and AFC Wimbledon. The club viewed his dual role as an opportunity to inject attacking intent and leadership, with Kedwell expressing enthusiasm for building an "exciting era" at London's oldest football club.[41] As player-manager, Kedwell balanced limited on-pitch contributions with oversight of the team, appearing in 5 matches and scoring 1 goal during the season. His managerial duties involved a complete squad rebuild in just two months, emphasizing versatile players capable of adapting to multiple formations during pre-season trials. Key signings included experienced goalkeeper Jack Turner, defender and captain Dean Beckwith, midfielder Charlie Allen for high-energy play, and former Ipswich Town player Andy Drury as assistant manager, blending youth and seniority to foster a competitive "club family" culture. This approach drew on Kedwell's forward background to promote attacking football, with the team securing early successes such as wins in their first two league games of the season.[42][43][44] Kedwell's tenure faced significant challenges, including the pressure of managing a near-entirely new squad amid a relegation battle in the Isthmian League Premier Division. Over 24 games in all competitions, he recorded 6 wins, 4 draws, and 14 losses, with the team positioned in the bottom two after 19 league fixtures, including a recent 3-2 defeat to Margate. Balancing playing and coaching proved demanding, as the club struggled with inconsistent results despite reaching the third round of the FA Trophy for the first time in their history.[45][39] Kedwell departed Cray Wanderers by mutual consent on 28 December 2021, following the Margate loss, as the club sought a change to address their precarious position. He reflected on his pride in assembling the squad from scratch but expressed disappointment at the early end to his stint, thanking the club for the opportunity. The separation allowed Kedwell to pursue opportunities focused on playing, while Cray transitioned to interim management.[45][46] During his time, Kedwell introduced initiatives for youth integration, inspired by his own non-league progression, by establishing a scholarship plan for under-18 players to create a pathway into the first team. This emphasis on home-grown talent aimed to build long-term sustainability, though the immediate impact was limited by the tenure's brevity and the team's struggles.[43]Management at Ashford United (2024–2025)
Danny Kedwell was appointed manager of Ashford United on 14 May 2024, marking his first full-time managerial position at the Isthmian League South East Division club after leaving his assistant role at Chatham Town.[3][47] Building on his prior player-manager experience at Cray Wanderers in 2021, Kedwell initially took on a hybrid role, making several appearances and scoring at least two goals, including a standout long-range strike in a 3-1 league win over East Grinstead Town in October 2024, before shifting focus to coaching.[48][49] Under Kedwell's leadership during the 2024–25 season, Ashford United maintained a mid-table position in the Isthmian League South East Division, ending his tenure in 10th place, seven points from the play-off spots.[7][50] The team secured key victories, such as a 3-1 triumph at East Grinstead Town and a 2-1 home win against Eastbourne Town, contributing to a three-game winning streak in October that highlighted an attacking style influenced by Kedwell's background as a prolific forward.[51] Kedwell oversaw significant squad rebuilding amid the club's transition under new ownership earlier in 2024, integrating new signings like former Manchester United winger Lee Martin (who later departed for Ramsgate) and young forward Ronald Sithole, while addressing budget constraints and player departures.[52][53][54] These efforts supported the owners' vision for community engagement and long-term growth in the Ashford area, including plans for two promotions within six years.[52] Kedwell's tenure ended by mutual consent on 20 January 2025, prompted by a poor run of form and club restructuring, after overseeing 39 matches across all competitions with 18 wins, 6 draws, and 15 losses—a win rate of approximately 46%.[7][50][55] His legacy includes bolstering youth development through the integration of promising talents, such as his son Preston Kedwell, and fostering an attacking orientation that emphasized forward play and provided a foundation for the club's ambitions.[56][57]Coaching at Folkestone Invicta and AFC Croydon Athletic (2025–present)
Following his departure from Ashford United in January 2025, Danny Kedwell joined the first-team coaching staff at Folkestone Invicta on 29 January, assisting manager Andy Drury and assistant Ben Harding with the Isthmian League Premier Division side.[8][58] This short-term role lasted until mid-February, during which Kedwell reunited with his former Gillingham colleague Drury to provide tactical support and player development input over approximately two weeks.[59][60] On 15 February 2025, Kedwell was appointed manager of AFC Croydon Athletic in the Isthmian League South East Division, replacing Keith Millen alongside assistant Dean Beckwith.[10][59] Taking over mid-season, Kedwell focused on squad stabilization, guiding the team to a 12th-place finish in the 2024–25 campaign with a balanced record that secured their position comfortably in mid-table.[61] Early results under his leadership included key victories such as a 1–0 win against Margate on 15 February, helping to build momentum and defensive solidity.[62] In the 2025–26 season, Kedwell has emphasized youth integration, notably signing his son Harvey Kedwell, a 20-year-old midfielder from Charlton Athletic, to bolster the squad's emerging talent alongside other young additions like Noah Watson.[63][64] This approach draws on Kedwell's extensive experience as a prolific non-league striker, where he mentors forwards on positioning and finishing, fostering a blend of veteran leadership and youthful energy. Defensive improvements have been evident, with the team achieving a +13 goal difference through organized backlines and clean sheets in six of 16 league matches. As of November 2025, AFC Croydon Athletic sit fourth in the division with 33 points from 16 games (ten wins, three draws, three losses), reflecting a 63% win rate and strong contention for promotion.[65][66][67] Key highlights include a historic FA Cup run, reaching the second qualifying round for the first time in club history after victories over Roffey FC, Tooting & Mitcham United, and a 2–1 extra-time win against Sittingbourne, with goals from Kadell Daniel and Nya Kirby, before losing 2–4 to Hampton & Richmond Borough in the second qualifying round.[68][69] In post-match reflections, Kedwell has highlighted a "changed mentality" and the importance of reacting positively to setbacks, underscoring his philosophy of continuous improvement and resilience.[10] Kedwell remains in the role as of November 2025.[70]Career statistics and achievements
Playing statistics
Danny Kedwell's playing statistics reflect a prolific career primarily in non-league football, with a brief stint in the Football League. Compilation from multiple sources indicates approximately 620 league appearances and 230 goals across his career, though records from early non-league years (2001–2007) show discrepancies due to incomplete documentation in lower divisions. For example, his time at Herne Bay in 2004–05 saw him score 28 goals in all competitions, while at Welling United over two seasons (2005–07), he netted 38 league goals, with 23 in 2006–07 alone. Prior to that, at clubs like Chatham Town, Lordswood, and Maidstone United, specific figures are sparse, but he is estimated to have made around 100 appearances and scored 40 goals in these formative years based on club histories. [41] [14] The following table summarizes his league appearances and goals from 2007–08 to 2020–21, drawn from detailed performance data. Cup competitions are listed in separate rows where notable contributions occurred, such as in FA Cup or play-offs. These figures exclude the early years and post-2021 appearances, though he continued playing until January 2025, adding approximately 50 more appearances and 10 goals across Cray Wanderers, Chatham Town, and Ashford United.| Season | Club | Competition | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007–08 | Grays Athletic | Conference National | 42 | 13 |
| 2008–09 | Grays Athletic | Conference National | 8 | 0 |
| 2008–09 | AFC Wimbledon | Conference National | 30 | 7 |
| 2009–10 | AFC Wimbledon | Conference National | 39 | 21 |
| 2010–11 | AFC Wimbledon | Conference National | 45 | 23 |
| 2010–11 | AFC Wimbledon | FA Cup | 3 | 0 |
| 2010–11 | AFC Wimbledon | Conference Play-offs | 3 | 1 |
| 2011–12 | Gillingham | League Two | 40 | 12 |
| 2011–12 | Gillingham | FA Cup | 4 | 2 |
| 2011–12 | Gillingham | League Cup | 1 | 0 |
| 2011–12 | Gillingham | EFL Trophy | 1 | 0 |
| 2012–13 | Gillingham | League Two | 38 | 14 |
| 2012–13 | Gillingham | FA Cup | 2 | 1 |
| 2012–13 | Gillingham | EFL Trophy | 2 | 1 |
| 2013–14 | Gillingham | League One | 27 | 10 |
| 2013–14 | Gillingham | FA Cup | 1 | 0 |
| 2013–14 | Gillingham | League Cup | 1 | 0 |
| 2013–14 | Gillingham | EFL Trophy | 1 | 0 |
| 2014–15 | Gillingham | League One | 14 | 4 |
| 2014–15 | Gillingham | FA Cup | 1 | 1 |
| 2014–15 | Gillingham | League Cup | 1 | 0 |
| 2014–15 | Gillingham | EFL Trophy | 2 | 0 |
| 2014–15 | Ebbsfleet United | National League South | 13 | 3 |
| 2015–16 | Ebbsfleet United | National League South | 40 | 11 |
| 2016–17 | Ebbsfleet United | National League South | 34 | 12 |
| 2017–18 | Ebbsfleet United | National League | 45 | 18 |
| 2017–18 | Ebbsfleet United | FA Cup | 1 | 1 |
| 2017–18 | Ebbsfleet United | National League Play-offs | 2 | 0 |
| 2018–19 | Ebbsfleet United | National League | 42 | 13 |
| 2018–19 | Ebbsfleet United | FA Cup | 2 | 0 |
| 2019–20 | Havant & Waterlooville | National League South | 25 | 11 |
| 2019–20 | Havant & Waterlooville | National League South Play-offs | 1 | 0 |
| 2020–21 | Havant & Waterlooville | National League South | 8 | 1 |