MARTIN Tyler has been appointed as assistant manager of struggling Hemel Hempstead.
The Tudors have claimed one point in the last nine games, causing the North-West London club playing in National League South to be six points above the relegation zone.
Brandon Quinton was relieved of duties as first team manager of Hemel on 5th March after the dismal run of form.
Alan Dowson was hired as the new first team manager, and then in came former commentator Tyler.
After 33 years working with Sky Sports, Tyler stepped down from the role as a football commentor last summer.
Alongside his commentary career, the 78-year-old worked as an assistant manager to Dowson at five other clubs all in the National League’s.
Tyler’s most recent assistant managerial role lasted four years at Woking, stepping away from the role in 2022 after Dowson’s dismissal.
Hemel’s new hires are still looking for their first points and goal, after losing their first two games against Eastbourne and Bath City.
Speaking to Tyler before the Bath game on his plan to keep Hemel safe from relegation, he said: “The plan is to just win every football game.
“I’m just here to support Dowson, I’m just an extra body around to help.”
From the Premier League to full time National League dugout, Tyler’s love for football and aspirations remains passionate.
“This is what football is about, just trying to win games.”
“Even in my commentary life I would not try to predict anything… but we’re going to give it a go with some fresh new faces.”
Prior to Tuesday night’s game, Hemel announced three new signings hours before kick-off.
All on short term loan spells, Junior Gyamfi joined from Watford, Pierre Fonkeu from Oxford City and Jamie Sendles-White from Yeovil Town.
The trio all started the Bath City game hours later after one training session with the club but failed to make an impact on their debut’s.
Dowson and Tyler had made a signing earlier in the week, goalkeeper Jonathan Macaulay, in his second game for the club Macaulay blundered which helped Bath seal a 2-0 victory and move into the play-offs.
Tyler’s presence has already lifted morals within the club, a club media officer said “It’s incredible, no one could quite believe it when he walked in.”
“Everyone is definitely enjoying having Martin around.”
Hemel have eight games to play for the rest of the season, Tyler and Dowson will hope that presence turns into points.
