by Staff Writer
Wednesday, 18th March 2026
Former Hammer Andy Carroll has been appointed as interim manager of Dagenham & Redbridge.
The former England and West Ham striker, who is still registered as a player and now also a shareholder at the club, has stepped into the dugout following the sudden dismissal of Lee Bradbury - just weeks after high-profile investment transformed the club’s off-field landscape.
Having joined the club in 2025 on a three-year deal, the 37-year-old had already embedded himself deeply within the club's structure, contributing both on the pitch and behind the scenes as player-owner. And his appointment as manager comes at a time when Dagenham are attempting to rebuild and reignite ambitions of climbing back toward the Football League.
The decision to place Carroll in charge - albeit on an interim basis - underlines the influence of the club’s new ownership group, which includes YouTube personality KSI. With renewed financial backing and global attention, Dagenham & Redbridge are entering a new era with guaranteed media exposure.
Carroll, as both a recognisable football figure and internal stakeholder, represents a bridge between those two worlds. And despite his lack of managerial experience, he has already spoken of his deep commitment to the project.
News of his appointment was confirmed on the club's website earlier today (Wednesday), alongside confirmation of Bradbury's departure. "Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club can confirm that we have parted company with first team manager, Lee Bradbury," read a statement.
"Andy Carroll will take the team on an interim basis, and further updates will be communicated in due course."
Carroll, who has been regularly seen at West Ham matches in recent seasons, including the Conference League semi final second leg at Alkmaar in 2023, is yet to comment publically on his promotion, temporary or otherwise. It will be his first role in management.
However when his ownership stake was confirmed earlier this year, he stated: “This is just the start… I’m excited to continue the work to restore this club to the Football League where it belongs.”
That long-term vision now takes on greater urgency as he assumes responsibility for first-team results. Whether this bold move proves successful remains to be seen, but it has already ensured that Dagenham & Redbridge - and Andy Carroll - are once again firmly in the spotlight.
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