Gary McCann became Hendon manager on 2 February 2005 as the Greens were sliding towards relegation after eight consecutive losses, including four in cup-ties, of which three were particularly embarrassing. Gary admitted, "I knew it was going to be a tough job keeping the team up, but did I know what was going to happen over the next few years? Probably not. We have had to put up with a lot, but it is a club I care dearly about."

What Hendon fans appreciate most are the style of football Gary's teams play and the loyalty he engenders. McCann's philosophy is all about possession, passing and flowing football. He explained, "I don't like unattractive football. I want my teams to play the right way, keeping possession and passing accurately. But as a former goalkeeper, I have always understood where we need to be defensively. But, when you look after the football, the football will look after you."

Asked for the favourite players to appear for him, Gary said, "There have been many, but I think the ones who are currently with the squad and are approaching 250-300 games have to be up there - Dave Diedhiou, Kevin and Casey Maclaren, Lee O'Leary. But I have had some very special players who have played for me, Bontcho Guentchev and Darren Currie to name but two."

The Hendon links are also evident in the dugout because present coach Scott Cousins - still registered as a player - and his predecessors Junior Lewis and Guentchev all played with distinction for the Greens, as of course did assistant manager Freddie Hyatt.