Sources: Ashley Cole opens talks to be new Bromley manager

Former Chelsea and Arsenal defender Ashley Cole is in talks with League One side Bromley to become their next manager, replacing Andy Woodman.

Bromley have opened talks with Ashley Cole over their vacant managerial position following Andy Woodman's departure last week. The 45-year-old former England international and left-back has limited managerial experience, having most recently managed Italian Serie B side Cesena from March to summer 2024, winning just one of eight matches before stepping down.

Cole has worked as assistant manager at Chelsea and Birmingham City, and was part of the England coaching setup. Despite his reputation as a coach and his playing pedigree—including a Champions League winner's medal—his managerial track record remains thin. Bromley, currently 22nd in League One after a difficult start to their first-ever third-tier campaign, view him as a clear contender for the role at Hayes Lane.

Woodman transformed the club over five years, leading them from the National League into the EFL for the first time, but his exit has frustrated supporters despite the team remaining just two points from safety.