Steve Morrison was dismissed as Sutton United manager after a poor start to the season. With ambitions of a return to the Football League, the U’s could not afford to remain in the relegation zone. Interim boss Jon Meeney has also departed following the arrival of Chris Agutter.

Sutton Pay Big for New Boss

The 37-year-old joins from National League South side Worthing. Sutton confirmed lengthy negotiations and a significant compensation fee were needed to land their man.

Early Career in Sussex

Agutter began coaching with Brighton’s youth teams before becoming assistant manager at Eastbourne. His big break came at Hastings United, where he initially oversaw the academy before stepping up as first-team boss in 2017 at just 29.

Turning Hastings Around

Once regular relegation battlers, Hastings were transformed under Agutter into play-off contenders in his debut season. Promotion to the Isthmian Premier followed, before he moved on to academy roles at Stevenage and Brighton. A successful return to Hastings nearly delivered National League South football.

Record-Breaking Worthing Spell

Agutter then took charge of Worthing, guiding them to a fourth-place finish – their highest ever – in his first season. This campaign started inconsistently, but his possession-focused approach continued to draw plaudits.

Why Sutton Chose Him

Sutton believe Agutter is the perfect fit: a manager who favours patient, attacking football and puts trust in young players – a philosophy that mirrors the club’s own.

What Next for Worthing?

Davies Favourite to Step In

Worthing must replace Agutter, and Slough Town boss Scott Davies is an early frontrunner. Known for his possession football and youth development, he fits the club’s identity.

Rebel to Rebel

Davies has already nurtured talents like Slavi Spasov and David Ogbonna, both of whom earned National League moves this summer. A switch from Slough to Worthing would offer a smooth transition – Rebel to Rebel, with the same DNA.