Altrincham boss Neil Young has resigned after just six games in charge – and retired from football.
Appointed as successor to Lee Sinnott four months ago, the former Colwyn Bay, Chester and Stockport County boss began the season with three impressive draws against highly-rated opposition but has followed that with three defeats, including 6-0 and 4-2 home defeats to AFC Fylde and Curzon Ashton.
The Robins said he phoned chairman Grahame Rowley this afternoon and told him he was stepping down, with immediate effect and without any kind of settlement, in the interests of the club.
Alan Goodall, Jake Moult and Shaun Densmore will take temporary charge of team affairs, starting at Kidderminster tomorrow, while a replacement is sought.
Young also made it clear the Altrincham post would be his last in football management.
He said: “I would like to thank Grahame Rowley and his family, the board and all the volunteers who gave me the opportunity to manage Altrincham Football Club. 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.
“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 and met so many selfless people whose commitment to their football club and to me has been remarkable. I would like to thank all my staff who have worked tirelessly over the last three months and wish them all the very best. I wish Altrincham Football Club, all its staff, players and Supporters, all the very best for the future.”
The club is now inviting applications for the post.
Chairman Rowley 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 straightaway and make the required impact, but, in his time with us, Neil never let up in his efforts to find the right blend.”
