Isthmian League

Ex-Albion legend joins Hawks as assistant-manager

Adam El-Abd, who made over 300 appearances for the Albion, has signed for Whitehawk as player-assistant manager after leaving League Two Stevenage. El-Abd replaces JP Kissock who has not been able to commit to the weekly travelling to and from Liverpool.

El-Abd, 35, worked with the Hawks U18 side last season while completing his UEFA A licence, after a football league career of 400-plus games and 7 international caps for Egypt. The Brighton-born defender, who can also play in midfield, is looking to make a mark back in his home city, having left the Amex Stadium in 2014. “I had offers from elsewhere, but I want to put something back into Brighton football and the local community, as well as having a chance to develop my coaching skills. Whitehawk are building a very good squad and I am looking forward to working with Jude Macdonald and his backroom staff.”

“I am delighted to welcome Adam to the club,” added Chairman Andy Schofield. “Everyone who saw him play for the Albion knows his complete commitment. He’s always looked after himself so will be playing every week, as well as working with the squad on the training ground. Having someone of his calibre around the club will give everyone a lift.”

Hawks Manager Jude Macdonald said: “We are all gutted to see JP leave, but bringing in Adam El-Abd will certainly enable us to carry on the good work from last season.” Paying tribute to JP Kissock, Macdonald added “We couldn’t have asked for a harder-working assistant manager and we are thankful for all his efforts whilst at the club. After moving back to Liverpool during lockdown, his work circumstances mean he couldn’t give 100% to the club. He didn’t want to do the role without giving it everything which says it all about his character.”

As well as welcoming Adam El-Abd, the club wishes JP all the best for the future and look forward to welcoming him back down from the north whenever he can next make it. 

 

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