The job of Altrincham manager is up for grabs after the club invited applications to take charge of the team from the end of this season.
The decision followed a board meeting at the J Davidson Stadium to consider the claims of current manager Matt Doughty and his assistant Robbie Lawton, who replaced the sacked Jim Harvey on a caretaker basis in December and were appointed for the rest of the season on New Year’s Day.
Despite a discernible improvement in performances that led to two wins and two draws in the last five weeks, Alty remain bottom of the Vanarama National League North with just three wins from 36 games and, 16 points from safety, on the verge of relegation to the Evo-Stik League.
It was felt prudent, therefore, to test the market for a manager capable of instigating a significant and lasting revival in the club’s fortunes, though Doughty and Lawton have not been discounted and will be interviewed along with other candidates in the next few weeks.
Explaining their stance and underlining their eagerness to make an early and positive start to preparations for next season, Alty’s board issued a statement.
It read: “The position of Altrincham manager beyond this season was discussed by the board of directors at their monthly meeting. The matter was given careful thought and consideration, and it was noted there has been an upturn in performances and, more recently, results since Matt Doughty and Robbie Lawton took charge.
“Compared to the first half of the season, there have been welcome signs of greater organisation, spirit and endeavour on the pitch. However, it was felt by the board that this in itself did not justify the automatic re-appointment of Matt and Robbie for next season and that to give us the optimum opportunity of recruiting the best possible candidate to take the club forward, the position should be advertised.
“Applications are therefore invited for the post of manager of Altrincham Football Club. We are looking for driven and ambitious candidates with a proven track record of building and sustaining a team that delivers success. This is an exciting opportunity to restore the fortunes of one of non-League football’s best-known names, and the successful applicant will be given a more than competitive budget, commensurate with our objectives for next season.
“It is hoped a shortlist will be drawn up from those who apply in time for interviews to be held early next month. That shortlist will include the current incumbents.”
Applications, with full CV, must be received by Monday April 3rd and can either be posted to Altrincham Football Club, Moss Lane, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA15 8AP or emailed to office@altrinchamfootballclub.co.uk.
