Former Premier League striker Jamie Cureton has embarked on a remarkable new chapter in his storied career, taking on the role of player-manager for non-league side Kings Park Rangers at the age of 50.
A Career Spanning the Football Pyramid
Cureton's professional journey began in the mid-1990s with Norwich City in the Premier League. Over a career that started in 1993, the forward has played for a host of clubs including Reading, Bristol Rovers, Queens Park Rangers, and Colchester United. His most prolific seasons saw him net 30 goals for Reading in the third tier and win the Championship Golden Boot with Colchester in 2007.
His longevity was highlighted in October when, playing for Kings Park Rangers, he became the first player to score in each of England's top ten football tiers. This historic goal came against Dussindale & Hellesdon Reserves after he joined the Suffolk-based club.
Stepping into the Dugout
Cureton replaces club owner John Pollard in the Kings Park Rangers dugout. Pollard leaves a strong legacy, having secured 51 wins in 66 games and delivering back-to-back promotions for the club. He will now focus on off-field development in his capacity as owner.
The club issued a statement thanking Pollard, saying: "John transformed our club and leaves us in an incredibly strong position. His dedication, passion and tactical brilliance brought success we'll never forget."
This is not Cureton's first foray into management. He has previously held the player-manager position at Cambridge City and has managerial experience with Bishop's Stortford and Enfield. He also spent time coaching at Arsenal's academy, where he played a part in the early development of England star Bukayo Saka.
Ambitions for the Future
Kings Park Rangers currently sit second in the Eastern Counties League Division One North, and Cureton's first match in charge will be an away fixture against Wivenhoe Town. Despite his dual role, the veteran striker has previously committed to not letting his personal playing ambitions overshadow the needs of his squad.
"I won't ever put myself above players who I feel need the opportunity and need to be playing," Cureton has stated, emphasising his team-first philosophy as he begins this latest challenge in the tenth tier of English football.
