Phil Brown's New Chapter at Peterborough Sports

“When you interview for a job, they always want to hear this word 'philosophy' - I’m called Phil and my daughter’s called Sophie, so it’s something to do with that.”

Phil Brown, a seasoned figure in football, has experienced it all throughout his extensive career, which includes over 650 matches as a full-back and managerial stints across the top six divisions of English football, as well as a year in India with Hyderabad.

Now, at 66 years old, Brown finds himself in Peterborough, a far cry from the warmer climates of the sub-continent, as he embarks on a new journey with Peterborough Sports in the National League North.

Having previously led Hull City to promotion to the Premier League, Brown is now focused on turning around the fortunes of Peterborough Sports. “Did I want to come back to this level? No, but football has a weird way of playing its hand, and I’m now here, working with one of the most supportive chairmen I’ve encountered,” he stated.

Brown emphasized that while many remember his achievements with Hull City, achieving success with Peterborough Sports would also be a significant milestone. “If I can keep Peterborough Sports in this division, that’s our first goal. If we survive this year, then it’s all about next year and whether we can get promoted and advance the club,” he added.

The 2,300-capacity Lincoln Road stadium of Peterborough Sports presents a stark contrast to the grand venues like Old Trafford and Anfield that Brown frequented during his time with Hull. He has also adjusted to seeing chairman Tim Woodward engaged in hands-on work, such as welding and removing boilers.

“Every day I come in here, there’s always something new happening,” Brown remarked.

Currently, Peterborough Sports is struggling at the bottom of the table with only 14 points from 17 games in their fourth season in the second tier of non-league football. However, Brown insists he has never been more content, despite the lengthy commute from his home in the Cotswolds for training twice a week.

“I’ve just started a young family not long ago—life outside football is important too,” he explained. “I never seemed to have the balance right throughout my career, but if you can achieve that balance, you become a better manager. I think I’ve got that balance now, which is likely why I’m the happiest I’ve been in football.”

Last month, Brown expressed his surprise at being dismissed by Kidderminster after leading them to the play-offs. Therefore, securing his first league win with Peterborough Sports against his former team was particularly gratifying.

Another achievement came recently when Ben Beresford’s header secured a 2-1 victory at Oxford City, propelling Peterborough Sports into the third round of the FA Trophy, a competition in which they reached the quarter-finals last season.

Brown believes that the principles of management remain constant, regardless of the level of competition; it is about equipping players with the necessary information to succeed. However, he acknowledges that managing in tier six requires a deeper understanding of the players' circumstances.

Reflecting on his management journey, Brown credits former Bolton Wanderers manager Bruce Rioch for inspiring him to pursue coaching. “He told me, ‘you don’t give up football at the end of your playing career because football needs you.’ At the time, I didn’t fully grasp his words, but they motivated me to pursue coaching badges and delve into management,” Brown shared.

Brown remains open to advice from respected figures in football as he aims to return to the professional game. He recalled a recent conversation with former Luton Town manager David Pleat, who offered insights on managing part-time players. “I want this to serve as a platform for my return to the Football League,” Brown concluded.

Phil Brown's New Chapter at Peterborough Sports

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