Peterborough United hero becomes manager of Spalding United and he’s taken a former Newcastle United and Portsmouth star with him

Peterborough United promotion hero Gaby Zakuani has been appointed manager of Northern Premier League side Spalding United.
By Alan Swann
Published 26th Oct 2020, 14:40 BST
Gaby Zakuani playing for Posh in 2013.Gaby Zakuani playing for Posh in 2013.
Gaby Zakuani playing for Posh in 2013.

Zakuani, who helped Posh to two promotions, has been assisting the Tulips since the departure of Lewis Thorogood earlier this month, but he’s taken on a tough job as Spalding have lost their last five South East Division matches to slip to fourth from bottom.

Zakuani’s DR Congo International teammate Tresor Lomana Lualua has been appointed as Spalding’s attacking coach. Lualua enjoyed an excellent professional career with Newcastle United and Portsmouth among others.

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Neal Spafford becomes assistant manager with Ronayne Marsh-Brown taking over as the first team coach.

Tresor Lomana Lualua in action for Portsmouth in 2005.Tresor Lomana Lualua in action for Portsmouth in 2005.
Tresor Lomana Lualua in action for Portsmouth in 2005.

Zakuani told Spalding Today: “I’ve seen the set up in the last few weeks and I look forward to now putting my stamp on the squad. I know it is going to take a lot of hard work, but I believe in myself and my staff’s ability.”

Zakuani (34) was once transferred from Orient to Fulham for £1 million before joining Posh in September, 2008 and helping the club to promotion from League One that season.

Zakuani was also part of the Posh promotion squad to the Championship in the 2010-11 campaign. He formed a friendship with Peterborough-based business man Andrew Killingsworth while at Posh. Killingsworth now owns Spalding United.

Zakuani’s first game in charge is a tough one at seventh placed Belper Town on Saturday (October 31).

Related topics:Spalding UnitedTulipsNewcastle UnitedPortsmouthSpalding