Newton Aycliffe FC chairman Allan Oliver has stepped back into the hot-seat as caretaker manager of the Royal Blues.
Following Adrian Webster’s resignation on Sunday, as revealed on Aycliffe Today, Oliver has returned to the Aux Audio Stadium dug-out just a few months after moving “upstairs”.
And he will take charge of Aycliffe’s game at home to Marske United on Wednesday night (7pm).
Aycliffe’s start to the season has been disappointing, with just two league victories against Crook Town, and defeats in both the FA Cup and FA Vase.
Newly-appointed manager Webster was in his first managerial role, and found the going tough.
In an emotional conversation with Oliver after the Vase defeat, Webster admitted the job was probably “two or three seasons too soon”.
Oliver reluctantly felt he had no option but to accept Webster’s resignation.
And that leaves Aycliffe searching for their third permanent manager of the season already.
“It’s important we steady the ship,” said Oliver, who led Aycliffe to successive promotions through the local leagues to the Ebac Northern League top flight.
“This is a good club, and a lot of heart and effort from a lot of people have got us to where we are today.
“What we need now is to win a couple of games and take stock before we decide on the next move for the club”.
Aycliffe have a small but dedicated team of volunteers who help to run the club.
They are working tirelessly to bring in additional revenue to help underpin the team.
“It’s tough for everyone,” added Oliver.
“But the most important thing is Newton Aycliffe FC. We are well aware of a number of high-profile managers looking for new clubs, but Gary (Farley) and I have lots of experience, and that can be used to buy the club the time to decide what is in its best interests moving forward.”
Upcoming fixtures:
Wed 10th Sept Vs Marske United (h)
Sat 13th Sept Vs Celtic Nation (a)
Wed 17th Sept Vs Norton and Stockton (h)
Sat 27th Sept Vs Whitley Bay (h)