Richard Styles steps down as Lordswood manager: My decision to leave the club has been extremely difficult and not an easy decision to make but for my own development and progress I feel it’s the right time for me to step away from the role

LORDSWOOD begin the search for a new manager tonight after Richard Styles handed in his resignation after three seasons in charge of the club.

 

The club finished in tenth-place in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division table, having collected 55 points from their 38 league outings last season.


Richard Styles is employed
by Charlton Athletic's
Community Trust.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my resignation as first team manager of Lordswood with immediate effect,” said Styles in a statement.

“Three years ago Lordswood gave me the opportunity and support to fulfil a dream of mine after I stopped playing, to be a football manager. This is something I’ll never forget and one that I’m eternally grateful for.

“After starting from scratch with no experience, I am very proud of the position, dressing room, set-up and atmosphere that is at the club today.

“I want to thank each and every player that has ever worn the Lordswood shirt for me and appreciate the efforts alongside that.

“This also extends to each member of staff over the past three seasons.  I quite simply couldn’t have done it without any of you.

“I’m proud of the progress we have made as a club over the last three seasons stemming from the first team, down to the youth section.  The closeness and support from the youth has been amazing, thank you to all parents’ and players.

“I want to thank the committee members especially Steve Lewis, Paul Caulfield and Terry Hussey, who I have worked closely with during this time and have always been there to offer support, you have my ultimate respect.

“Thank you to all club volunteers for your support.

“Lordswood FC will always be in my heart and a club that I’ve had so many great times, both playing and managing.

“I have met some great people who have become personal friends of mine and some like family to me.

“My decision to leave the club has been extremely difficult and not an easy decision to make but for my own development and progress I feel it’s the right time for me to step away from the role.

“I wish Lordswood FC nothing but the best for the future.”

Styles’ assistant manager, Dan Morrin, has also left the club.

“Wanted to take the time to thank Lordswood for welcoming me in as assistant manager in what was a fantastic first job," Morrin said in a statement.

“For the past three years I’ve loved my time at the club but the time is right to begin a new chapter and new challenge.”

 A club statement added: “Lordswood manager Richard Styles has resigned from his post at the club with immediate effect.

“We would like to thank Richard and his team for their efforts over the past three seasons.

“Following Richard’s resignation, Lordswood are now inviting applications for the vacant first team manager’s role.

“Interested parties should send their CV and covering letter to lordswoodfc@live.co.uk.”

The closing date for applications is next Monday, 10 June 2019.

Visit Lordswood’s website: www.pitchero.com/clubs/lordswoodfc