Nichol No Longer in Charge at Garforth

Steve Nichol revealed that he is no longer in charge at troubled Evo-Stik Northern Premier League First Division North club Garforth Town.

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Published 15th July 2012

Steve Nichol

Nichol said: "I have held back over recent weeks from making any public comments. However, ahead of the first pre-season game it is important supporters have confirmation that I am no longer manager of Garforth Town AFC.

“I believe Vernol Blair is currently in control of team affairs having led the first two training sessions this week. I wish Ve the very best, he is a good man - he knows football and this level of football well.

“After such an excellent 2011/12 season I was very much looking forward to the coming campaign. The team was taking shape, the squad, with the exception of two players, had agreed to stay at the club and two new signings were due to be confirmed, both who I felt would push the team forward from last season.

“I do not wish to divulge the reasons for my departure from the club (and Brazilian Soccer Schools) or comment on posts placed on many social media outlets. Those who know me will make sound judgement of the situation. It goes without saying that I am very disappointed to no longer be involved, but there was little option and I wish those leading the team the very best of luck.

“It has been hard to see events take place that have transpired over recent weeks. The players all met with Ve and Joe Fella listened and then made decisions on how they saw their football going forwards. “I have been involved at Garforth Town since 2004/05 season and shared some magical times with players, Simon Clifford, Ve and Paul Cavell. “I would be thankful to Simon for the opportunity to be involved with such a fantastic club, the good times and the practical experience I have gained.

“During my time I have given absolutely everything and sacrificed big parts of my life for Simon and to aid the club moving forwards. “There have also been difficult times, times of standing in charge or ‘taking control’ of matters when needs must. It is those difficult moment that make you appreciate the good. “Last season was definitely my most enjoyable time at the club; the atmosphere amongst the players, how the squad evolved and what we all believed was to come. Over those eighteen months and having moved to Leeds I was really able to get to grips with being in sole charge of all playing matters.

“Looking back I am pleased with our achievements, Simon Clifford on the Garforth Town facebook page on 31st March made comment of my achievements over the last eighteen months and that: 'this was the finest team in the 48-year history of Garforth Town AFC' and highlighted the credit I deserved for it.

“Our achievements were a joint effort of Ve, Richard Sutherland, Paul Cavell, every one of the players and myself – a great group of people all committed to taking the club forwards."

[Source: SW]