SCOTT Burton has questioned the tactics employed by Stalybridge Celtic manager Simon Haworth.
The midfield player, who has quit the club without playing a competitive match, does not believe employing three central defenders works at Northern Premier League.
Burton, 33, said: “I have captained successful sides at Salford City and Chester FC at this level and above, and playing three at the back does not work.
“Teams don’t get enough balls into the box playing that system. At this level you need a back four.
“I have given Simon my thoughts, but he is determined to play three at the back and to get it right.”
Burton, who only signed in July, added it was his decision to rip up his five-figure contract for the 2021-22 season after Haworth failed to involve him in matchday squads.
He said: “When the team was losing, and the manager was still not putting me in the squad, that was behind my decision.
“If I was only 60 per cent fit, I would have contributed to the team.
“I accept I can no longer run 12k-13k a game as I used to do, but I will still give 100 per cent and will run and tackle.”
Before Burton arrived at Bower Fold, he informed Haworth he had a calf problem.
He said: “I told Simon I needed two weeks to get it right and, if I could not get it right, I would walk away for nothing.
“I paid myself for acupuncture three times a week. I also asked Gary Neville if I could see the physio at Salford which I did three times a week such was my determination to get fit.”
Burton, who has his own joinery business, then had the misfortune of catching Covid-19 after only one training session back.
“I then hired a caravan to take my family away during pre-season for one week which the manager didn’t like.”
Burton added when he was not included in matchday squads at the start of the season, he decided to quit the club.
He explained: “I said to Simon let’s call it a day and for the club just to give me some compensation for the treatment I paid for myself.
“It is strange that Simon never got to see what type of player I am. I don’t hold grudges and wish Stalybridge well.”
Burton, who has already received an offer from Bamber Bridge, is taking a break from football before deciding whether to resume playing.