Ashington AFC can confirm that, following discussions between the club and first-team manager Marc Ellison, it has been mutually agreed that it is in the best interests of the club to make a change in management at this stage of the season.
The club would like to place on record its thanks to Marc for his commitment, efforts and contribution during his time at Ashington and wish him every success in his future endeavours.
The club can also confirm that Paul Dunn will take interim charge of the first-team squad, supported by former Premier League footballer Liam Bridcutt, who will join Paul in the dugout during the interim period.
Head of Football, Ian Skinner, said:
“Firstly, I am personally disappointed that things haven’t worked out as we had envisaged with Marc. He is someone I have got to know personally and have thoroughly enjoyed working closely with, particularly towards the back end of last season when we worked together to secure the club’s league status.
“Beyond football, Marc is someone I consider a friend, and that won’t change. I have a great deal of respect for him and will certainly remain in touch. Sometimes, despite the best intentions and efforts of everyone involved, circumstances dictate that difficult decisions have to be made in the best interests of the football club.
“Looking ahead, I am delighted that Paul and Liam have agreed to step in and support the club during this period.
“I have known Paul for many years. We grew up together, have a strong connection to the local football community and continue to coach together. Paul knows this football club, understands what Ashington means to the town and has a genuine connection with the people within it. I think he is an excellent person to bring the squad, club and wider community together at what is undoubtedly a difficult time.
“I first met Liam during my time at Gateshead and have always been impressed by the person he is. He is a fantastic individual, incredibly humble and hardworking, and someone who brings a wealth of footballing knowledge and experience. I have no doubt he will be a real asset to Paul and the players, both on and off the pitch.
“Paul and Liam will also look to utilise the experience and leadership already within the dressing room, particularly our senior leadership group, to help drive standards, maintain togetherness and ensure the players take collective responsibility as we move forward.
“We haven’t ruled out making further additions to the interim management team should we feel they would strengthen the support available to the players and benefit the wider football operation. Our priority is to ensure we have the right people around the group, providing the necessary leadership, guidance and support during this period.
“Both Paul and Liam have agreed to come in and help the club, and I am grateful for their willingness to do so. The immediate priority is to bring some stability, reconnect everyone, build confidence within the group and ensure we move forward together.
“We recognise that this is a challenging period, but it is also an opportunity to regroup, refocus and move forward positively. Ashington AFC is bigger than any individual, and it is important that we all pull in the same direction.”
The club will now begin the process of recruiting a permanent first-team manager, with further details regarding the application process to follow.
We ask supporters to get behind Paul, Liam and the players as we look to move forward together.
Up the Colliers!
Ashington AFC