Southam was 'right job at wrong time' for Constable

Constable, who is a UEFA B coach with a long involvement with the club, was appointed in mid -September following the resignations of Quentin Townsend and his assistant Kim Casey. Both had handed in their notice following a meeting with chairman Charles Hill after the 2-2 draw with Stafford Town to discuss the disappointing start to the season.

All of the signings made by Townsend followed him out of the club, leaving just goalkeeper and club captain Tom Cross, defender Lee Thomas and midfielder Tunde Ajibade in the first team squad.

Describing the role as “one I've wanted for some time” Constable got off to a flying start with a 3-1 win at Pelsall Villa, with two goals from new signing Ben Purser.

But, it was downhill from there on, as defeat the following week to Coventry Alliance side Triumph Athletic in the Coventry Charity Cup was the start of a losing run of 13 matches, the latest of which was a 4-0 defeat at Hinckley AFC, a result that could have been worse if the home side had taken all their chances.

Constable’s task of rebuilding the side wasn’t made easier by the loss of Cross to Hinckley AFC after his first match in charge. An injury then ruled Purser out for the rest of the season and Thomas followed Cross to Hinckley, leaving him short of experienced players.

His resignation came as a surprise to Hill, who had backed his manager in giving local players an opportunity to step up into the Midland Football League and had been hopeful of a change in the club’s fortunes.

Speaking on Saturday evening, Constable said “I love Southam United, having been with them for over 20 years in different roles and it was a really tough decision to make.”

“To lose a massive amount of players was always going to be tough, especially during the season, but it was a task I enjoyed. The lads I have brought in are good enough for this level no doubt, they just need a break and I'm sure results will pick up for them soon enough.”

“It was the right job, just at the wrong time and I want to thank Charles for giving me the opportunity after a slow start to the season. I will decide my next move in the coming weeks but, for now, I’m still gutted and will be so for some time.”

Former reserve team manager Terry Davidson, who was brought onto the coaching staff by Constable, takes over as caretaker boss.

“I have enjoyed working with both Quentin and Lee during my time at Southam and am looking forward to helping out whilst the club look for someone who can push it forward,” said Davidson.