Bristol Rovers legend joins non-league side

Former Bristol Rovers striker Jamie Cureton has today been unveiled as the new manager of Northern League Ishmen Premier Division side Cambridge City.

Cureton has gone about his business quietly over the past two seasons in charge of Enfield FC and then most recently enjoyed a spell as manager with Maldon & Tiptree. He would lead the former to the Essex senior title in 2022/23 and will play a part in helping the latter to safety this season.

He would even feature for Maldon & Tiptree as a player-coach this year, despite now being 48 years old. Cureton’s love for the game is incredibly admirable and he would go on to have a long and successful playing career. A journeyman of sorts, the forward would turn out for a host of EFL sides including Norwich City, Reading, Queens Park Rangers and Exeter City to name just four.

However, it was with Bristol Rovers that Cureton had his best and most consistent spell. Joined from Norwich after a successful loan spell in 1996, it was with the Gas that the striker really put his name on the map.

Spending four years with the club, he would go on to make over 140 competitive appearances, scoring 61 times and was regarded as one of the club’s top goalscorers.

Originally from Bristol, Cureton has enjoyed his time with the club and still seems to have the same love for the game as he did over 25 years ago when he first appeared for the Gas.

Speaking to Cambridge City’s official website, the veteran appeared delighted with the move.

“I am delighted to be appointed as the new manager of Cambridge City Football Club. This is a fantastic opportunity and I am keen to start this new chapter with such a historic and passionate club.

I believe in a strong team ethic, hard work and dedication, both on and off the field. My aim is to build on the solid foundation already in place, bringing new ideas and strategies to help the club achieve our ambitions.

I’m looking forward to getting down to business right away as there’s a lot to do before the season starts. I can’t wait to meet them and get to know everyone at the club, including our loyal supporters. Together we can strive for success and make this season one to remember for everyone involved in Cambridge City FC.

Thank you for the warm welcome. Let’s get down to business and make great things happen”

The writer’s vision

There are very few people in the world like Jamie Cureton and it looks like he will never leave the game. A class act in every sense of the word, the opportunity at Cambridge City looks like a great way for him to progress in a managerial capacity.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see him lace up the boots once again and while his style of play will vary a bit from his early years, his experience will stand the players in very good stead for next season.

Bristol Rovers will be hoping they can land a striker of his previous caliber this summer to help lead the line alongside star Chris Martin next term.

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