‎“That’s Not Ruthless, It’s Madness” – Ex-Portsmouth Winger on unbelievable manager sacking

Waterlooville AFC have made the extraordinary decision to part company with their manager before the club has even played a single match since reforming.

The Hampshire outfit, revived last year after a 27-year absence, had appointed former Portsmouth winger Jack Maloney as boss in December.

Owner Lee Stainton had secured a three-year groundshare with AFC Portchester and installed Harvey Bradbury as director of football, with ambitions of building a competitive side ahead of their return to league action.

But Maloney’s tenure has ended before it ever truly began. The 31-year-old, who made 11 appearances for Portsmouth during his playing days, departs without taking charge of a game. He was offered the chance to remain at the club as assistant manager but declined, while Bradbury has also left in protest at the decision.

Stainton has defended the move, insisting it was necessary for the club’s progress. He explained that a lack of communication over recent months forced his hand, with the owner claiming he had only spoken to Maloney a handful of times since his appointment.

Despite expressing personal affection for Maloney, Stainton admitted he had effectively been left to assemble the squad himself, with 16 players already agreeing to join.

He stressed that his focus is primarily on developing the business side of the club securing funding, attracting grants, and laying long-term foundations and that he needs a manager capable of taking full control of football operations.

Stainton also acknowledged he may have misjudged the situation, suggesting he expected someone with Maloney’s experience to take greater responsibility.

With significant time being spent speaking to potential players, he believes the club requires a more hands-on figure to lead recruitment and manage day-to-day football matters.

After struggling to contact Maloney for a week, the club ultimately issued a formal letter outlining the decision and offering the alternative role, but received no response.

Waterlooville AFC were officially reformed in October 2025 after Stainton gained approval to revive the club’s name. They are now awaiting confirmation of which division they will enter for the 2026–27 season, with expectations pointing towards the Hampshire League.