There will be changes to Aldershot Town manager Tommy Widdrington’s coaching staff next season, writes Samuel Carter.

Assistant manager Richard Dryden is leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract to join Yeovil Town and 36-year-old James Henry is taking on a player-coach role.

Dryden joined the Shots as Widdrington’s assistant at the end of 2022-23 and played a key role in the dugout, helping to mastermind the Shots’ Emirates FA Cup run in 2023-24 and their 2024-25 Isuzu FA Trophy win at Wembley.

Dryden served for more than 100 games as a Shots assistant manager and stepped up alongside fellow assistant manager Hugo Langton in Widdrington’s health-related absence last season.

A club spokesperson said: “All the best in the future, Richard, and thank you for your hard work and efforts with the Shots!”

Aldershot Town confirmed that Henry had signed a new contract with the club and would combine his playing commitments with a coaching position within Widdrington’s staff.

Henry joined the Shots in the summer of 2024 and helped fire them to Isuzu FA Trophy success with 17 goals in 51 appearances.

His experience within the game - he had more than 500 Football League appearances to his name - meant he was a key figure in the squad.

Having begun to earn his coaching badges over the last few years, he is looking forward to bringing his knowledge into the home dugout at the EBB Stadium.

He said: “Firstly, I hope everyone has been enjoying the break and has taken in the magnitude of our FA Trophy win in May. I’m sure you all enjoyed it as much as we did.

“I’m delighted to be back for the 2025-26 season and really excited about the new role as player/first team coach. I would like to thank the gaffer, coaching staff and board for seeing something in me and having the trust to give me this responsibility.

“It’s one I won’t be taking lightly, and hope as well as contributing on the pitch, I can help in the team and players’ development over the coming season. Looking forward to seeing you all back at the EBB!”