Altrincham boss resigns – and quits management altogether

ALTRINCHAM are looking for their fourth manager in six months after Neil Young resigned over the Bank Holiday weekend.

The Robins’ poor start to life back in the National League North continued with a 4-2 home defeat by Curzon Ashton on Saturday, and the following day Young felt it was time to stand down.

The former Chester FC boss lasted until January after being appointed by Stockport County last summer, and after less than four months in charge at Alty, Young has not only left the Robins but has decided to quit management altogether.

“Unfortunately, after a good pre-season and three opening draws against much-fancied opposition, the last three performances have not been at a level I would expect, even with the extensive injury list we have had,” he said.

“I believe it’s in the best interest of myself and, more importantly, the football club that I step down with immediate affect, and I also believe it’s the right time to ultimately retire from the dug-out.

“I’ve been lucky enough to manage four fantastic football clubs over the last eight years (including Colwyn Bay) and met so many selfless people whose commitment to their football club and to me has been remarkable.”

Alty players Alan Goodall, Shaun Densmore and Jake Moult were in charge for Monday’s trip to Kidderminster, when Alty lost 1-0. That was their fourth straight defeat and left them fourth-bottom of the National League North.

The Robins were fourth-bottom of the Vanarama National League in March, when they parted company with Lee Sinnott. His assistant, Neil Tolson, took over and was unable to keep Alty up. Despite being interviewed for the permanent job, Tolson missed out to Young, and although it didn’t work out, chairman Grahame Rowley acknowledged Young faced a tough task.

He said: “I would like to place on record my thanks to Neil for his dedicated approach to what was a very difficult job. Relegation had a big impact on our central funding from the league and meant an unavoidable reduction in the budget, which in turn led to players leaving and replacements having to be found.

“It goes without saying that’s no easy task, when you consider the numbers involved. Looking at it realistically, it’s a big ask to expect every signing to settle in straight away and make the required impact, but, in his time with us, Neil never let up in his efforts to find the right blend.”

The club has invited applications for the post. The team’s next game is at home to Stockport County this Saturday.