One of West Ham United's Championship opponents have appointed a former Hammer to spearhead their challenge for the 2026/27 campaign.
Lincoln City, who were promoted to the Championship as runaway champions of League One have moved swiftly to appoint former defender Chris Cohen and Tom Shaw as joint head coaches in the wake of Michael Skubala's departure to Bristol City.Cohen and Shaw, both 39, had been working together under Skubala as assistant coaches as The Imps stormed to the League One title last season to reach the second tier of English football for the first time in 65 years.
And Cohen, who began his playing career at West Ham - where he spent seven years as a pro between 1998 and 2005 - is preparing to take his first full time managerial role at Sincil Bank, when the 2026/27 season begins in August.
Lincoln chief executive Liam Scully said: "Chris and Tom have made an enormous contribution to the success we have enjoyed as a football club, and particularly during our League One title-winning season. They are outstanding coaches, brilliant people and have fully embraced the culture, standards and identity we have worked so hard to build at Lincoln City.
"The relationships they have developed with the players, staff and supporters have been hugely important, and we believe this appointment provides continuity, stability and an exciting opportunity to continue moving the football club forward.
"Winning the League One title with 103 points was an incredible achievement, with Chris and Tom playing an integral role. While that undoubtedly earned them serious consideration, the club’s work to identify and appoint the next head coach has been a transparent, ongoing and thorough process involving a range of external candidates.
"Ultimately, Chris and Tom have been appointed because we believe they are the right people to lead the team and build on the progress already made."
Cohen made a total of 22 first team appearances for the Hammers, 18 of which came as a substitute - the majority of which came in the Championship following West Ham's relegation in 2003.
* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.
