Alun Armstrong

Managerial career Blyth Spartans On 22 September 2016, Armstrong was appointed as the new manager of Northern Premier League Premier Division side Blyth Spartans. In his first season in charge of the Green Army, he guided them to win the league title at the first attempt, achieving National League North status for the first time since their relegation from the sixth tier at the end of the 2011–12 season.

In their first season back in the National League divisions, Armstrong led Spartans to a tenth-placed finish, four points adrift from play-off qualification. In their following league campaign, Armstrong's side saw a huge boost of form, eventually concluding the season in sixth place, qualifying for the divisional play-off quarter-finals, having recorded a 2–2 draw prior though extra time could not see Spartans push for victory. replacing Tommy Wright.

An impressive start to the 2022–23 season saw Armstrong awarded the National League North Manager of the Month award for September 2022, winning all four of their matches across the month and climbing to 3rd position from 17th at the start of the month.

On 6 September 2023, with Darlington languishing at the bottom of the National League North Table, Alun Armstrong and assistant Darren Holloway were sacked by the club.

Gateshead On 16 June 2025, Armstrong was appointed manager of National League side Gateshead, having coached the club's under-19 side over the previous year.

On 2 January 2026, with Gateshead bottom of the National League, he requilinished his role as first-team manager to become Gateshead's Head of Football Development. Rob Elliot took over his role as manager at the club.

Personal life His son Luke is also a footballer with Carlisle United. He has another son Rhys, who is at Darlington.

Career statistics

Managerial statistics As of 30 December 2025

Honours As a player Stockport County Football League Second Division runner-up: 1996–97

Middlesbrough Football League First Division runner-up: 1997–98

As a manager

Blyth Spartans 2016–17 Northern Premier League 2016-17 Northumberland Senior Cup

Individual National League North Manager of the Month: September 2022