Former Workington manager Chris Willcock has left the NPL West Division club Wythenshawe Town.
Since taking Reds to the runners-up position in the same League in 2021/22 he has also managed at Stalybridge Celtic and Lancaster City.
With a previously successful management CV Willcock would have taken Reds to the league title had they scored one more goal in their final match of the season at Market Drayton.
A 1-0 defeat at home to Newcastle Town on Saturday left Wythenshawe next to bottom but only three points from safety.
A club statement said: “We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Chris Willcock and his management team for their dedication, commitment and hard work during their time with the club.
“Chris’ efforts and professionalism have made a valued contribution on and off the field and would like to wish them all every success in the future.”
Willcock, who earned a reputation at Reds for bringing in good players when the club had several injury concerns, also issued a statement.
“Firstly I’d like to thank everybody who has shown me support throughout my time at the club, especially Chris and Eddie who have been at my side since the start of my appointment.
“I took charge of the team knowing the size of the task offered to me with the financial restraints would be my most challenging job in Non-League I have ever taken on.
“Even though we had a total re-build during the summer the club has an honest squad who are fighting for the cause.
“Unfortunately since the start of January results haven’t matched the remit that was asked of me by the club.
“They felt it was the right time to relieve me of my duties and give somebody else the opportunity with 13 games to go even though I was confident of keeping the club in step four.
“It’s been a pleasure to work with some of the volunteers, who are along with the fans, the backbone of the club.
“It is with regret that I wasn’t able to put the team in a stronger position at this stage of the season.
“To the fans, who I think have been unbelievable since I arrived at the club, the way you support the team is truly unique and I wish every single one of them all the best.
“Time now to reflect. I hope to see you all around at some time in the future.”
Ironically the other local side Wythenshawe are pursuing a place in the NPL West Division, currently topping the feeder League NW Counties and nine points clear.
Also, one of Willcock’s signings for the Reds, Paul Marshall is manager of another Manchester side West Didsbury and Chorlton, pushing strongly for a play-off place.
