League One's bottom-placed Bromley have appointed Karl Robinson as their new manager on a long-term contract. Robinson, 46, takes charge of the club following the dismissal of Andy Woodman last month and becomes the fifth managerial appointment of his career.
According to BBC Sport, Robinson has been without a club since departing Salford City in June. Byron Webster, who stepped into an interim role after Woodman's departure, will remain at Bromley as part of Robinson's coaching staff.
Bromley currently sit three points adrift of the League One safety zone after securing promotion to the third tier for the first time in their history during the previous campaign. The club's chairman Robin Stanton-Gleaves expressed confidence in the appointment, stating that Robinson's experience and tactical knowledge align with the organisation's ambitions.
Karl brings an elite level of experience, tactical acumen, and a proven track record of competing at the sharp end of League One. His relentless energy matches our ambition perfectly, and we are unified in our vision to drive this football club forward into an exciting new era.
Stanton-Gleaves added that a thorough recruitment process began immediately after Woodman's sacking on 22 October. The chairman emphasised the importance of identifying a candidate with proven League One experience and the credentials to guide the club forward.
What is Robinson's managerial record?
Robinson has held five managerial positions across his career. He spent more than six years at MK Dons, where he achieved a notable 4-0 League Cup victory over Manchester United in October 2014 and secured promotion to the Championship seven months later after finishing as League One runners-up. The Dons suffered immediate relegation, and Robinson was dismissed in October 2016.
He subsequently managed Charlton Athletic for 16 months before departing by mutual consent in March 2018. Robinson then took charge of Oxford United, where he reached the League One play-offs on two occasions before losing his position in February 2023. Following a spell as assistant manager at Leeds United, Robinson joined Salford City in January 2024 and guided them to fourth place in League Two—their highest-ever finish. However, the club lost the play-off final to Notts County, and Robinson was dismissed.
Who will join Robinson's coaching team?
Reports ahead of the appointment indicated that Telegraph coverage suggested Jermain Defoe was expected to join Robinson's staff, with Craig Short tipped as assistant manager and his brother Chris Short also expected to join the coaching setup. Webster's retention provides continuity following the interim period.
What are Bromley's recent results?
Bromley's form has been concerning, with FotMob records showing four defeats and one draw across their five most recent matches through 31 October, including a 3–2 loss at Wigan. This poor run contributed to the decision to replace Woodman, who had guided the club to two promotions in three seasons but managed only two wins in the first 10 games of the current campaign.
What developments surround the club's ownership?
Beyond the managerial appointment, Bromley have been reported to be in advanced takeover discussions with a consortium led by former Everton striker Victor Anichebe. Reports indicate the group could bring financial backing to the club, potentially providing resources for Robinson to strengthen the squad during the transfer window.
What happens next?
Robinson's first match in charge will be the FA Cup first-round tie against Rotherham United on 7 November at 15:00. Rotherham are managed by Alex Bruce, who previously served as Robinson's assistant at Salford City. Bromley are also scheduled to host MK Dons in the EFL Trophy on 10 November at 19:30, providing Robinson with two fixtures in quick succession as he begins his tenure.
