There’s more change afoot at Whitehaven after team manager Des Byrne announced he was quitting.
He also hinted at sub-plots behind the scenes at the troubled Championship club, which also seemed to be involved in coach Jonty Gorley’s departure.
So while Haven want to move on under the leadership of experienced former Super League star Kyle Amor, with six important games to go, differences behind the scenes seem to threaten progress.
Byrne, a former chairman of the club and a leading figure in the Vice Presidents group who have provided substantial financial backing over the years, announced his departure on Facebook.
He wrote: “It’s a personal post which I’m sorry to have to write.
“After Jonty left I thought long and hard about continuing in my voluntary role as team manager. I decided I would, to support the players till the end of the season.
“Last night I received news that a director was telling people I was getting sacked.
“This was confirmed by another couple of people this morning. I have no reason to doubt these people and that is backed up by another conversation I have had.
“Although quick enough to tell their friends none of the board could pick a phone up and tell me. Well guys I’ll save you the bother.
“It’s with a heavy heart I’m sad to say I’m stepping away from the role. It’s a role I’ve thoroughly enjoyed over the years. I’ve met some great players and coaches, had lots of laughs and made friendships that last.
“The last three years have been the most difficult and eventually people reap what they sow in the way they treat their fellow humans.
“Thanks to everyone I have had the pleasure of working with over the years and to all supporters for the support you give the team. I wish Kyle all the best in his position and hope the lads go on to prove that they are not a League One team. I’ll be on the terraces cheering them on.
“No doubt the smear campaign will intensify but I can hold my head up high.”
That was followed by a response from the Whitehaven board on their own club Facebook page.
It said: “The club is very saddened to hear our long standing team manager Des Byrne has decided to leave the club.
“The rumours are completely unfounded and Des is, and was, an integral part of the playing squad. Des’s role involves a lot of logistics which he has managed with the utmost professionalism.
“Des was part of our and Kyle’s future plans – which had only just been discussed this morning. We are sorry to see you go Des and we wish you well on whatever comes next.”
Members of the old board have just recently returned to see the club through a very difficult period.
Leaving it to Amor to sort out on the field, their task is to provide harmony off it.
