
Hutchinson joined the Blues at the start of the 2021/22 season from neighbouring team Eastwood CFC.
However, prior to joining Eastwood, Hutch had an impressive career playing for the likes of Middlesbrough, Celtic, Swindon Town, Lincoln City, Mansfield Town, Dundee FC and more.
The Blues forward made over 100 professional appearances, with a few even coming via the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.
But of course, for the last two seasons, Hutch has been vital for Long Eaton whilst back locating in his home city of Nottingham.
After the Blues’ play-off winning 2022/23 season, Hutchinson said via Twitter: “I love football. Long Eaton United has been my team for the last two years. Maybe two of the best years in my career. Unbelievable lads. Unbelievable management. Unbelievable fans. Two promotions on the trot and possibly my last year in footy.”
With that in mind, and after much persuasion from the management team and players, Hutch has been appointed first-team coach for the 2023/24 season.
In the 35-year-old’s 22 appearances for the Blues, he netted six times – one being the missile strike into the top right corner against Mickleover FC at Grange Park in the Third Round of the Derbyshire Senior Cup.
As an experienced former professional footballer, Hutch was used on many occasions to help see games out, calm things down and provide that additional touch of magic in the top half of the pitch.
Thus, with a very tough yet determined step-three season on the horizon for the Blues, Hutch will of course be important in helping the squad stay calm, focussed and providing them with some experienced knowledge on the game.
Hutch will join our existing management team as they prepare for the 2023/24 season at the highest level of football seen at Grange Park in the clubs’ 67-year history.