Darren Byfield resigns as Stratford Town manager

DARREN Byfield has quit as Stratford Town manager after just six games in charge.

The 41-year-old replaced Carl Adams in July, but he has decided to walk away due to "different views" on how the club should be run.

Byfield had previously offered his resignation after the opening-day win against St Neots, because of issues over signing players and team selection, before later being persuaded to stay on.

However, after speaking to Town directors Jed McCrory and Mark Bickley on Tuesday, the former Aston Villa and Walsall striker decided it was time to go.

Byfield said: "First and foremost I'd like to thank Stratford for appointing me in July.

"It's no secret I did resign after the first game. After the meeting, I was assured I would be allowed to do my job, but that's not been the case.

"We had different views on how the club should be run and If I am going to do it, then I want to be the manager of the football club.

"I've been a professional in all of my football life and if I cannot manage the team then it's best we go our separate ways.

"I had a few words with one of the directors on Tuesday and it was decided it was the best solution for both parties.

"I'm sad to leave and I'd like thank the fans for their support during my short time at the club."

The club initially released a short statement on Wednesday morning, thanking Byfield for his hard work and efforts, but a second statement later that day, from director Steve Shipway, said Byfield's exit suited both parties.

Shipway went on to say results had been poor and the manner in which some players had departed the club had left him concerned.

The statement read: "Darren joined the club in June and despite a heavily increased playing budget, early results have been poor, and players have been allowed to leave the club in a manner that the board felt was not in the best interests of the club.

"Darren met with two members of the board on Tuesday evening, and as a result of that meeting it was decided that the best action for both parties was to part company.

"Steve Walker and Nathan Marsh will look after the first team whilst the club goes through the process of sourcing and appointing a new manager."

Walker, who was Byfield's assistant, will take caretaker charge of the club for Saturday's FA Cup first qualifying round tie against Alvechurch at the Arden Garages Stadium (3pm).