THE SEARCH is on to find the next manager of Hyde United following Nick Spooner’s resignation.
Just over 24 hours after the Tigers drew 3-3 at Hebburn Town in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, the man in charge walked out.
Now the board at The Project Solar Stadium has begun the process of finding Spooner’s successor.
It is understood applications have already been lodged, although if interim trio of Martin Coyne, Chris Shaw and first team captain Jack Redshaw are successful, they may be given a longer reign.
However, after gaining only eight points from the first seven league matches, top of the to do list is guiding Hyde United away from relegation trouble.
The first match of the post-Spooner era sees them host Leek Town on Tuesday, September 9.
And the now former manager, who took charge in February 2022, believes the time had come for someone else to do the job.
He said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to manage this football club over the last number of years.
“I’ve appreciated all the backing from the board and the supporters from the first minute.
“We have had some great times. However, it’s the right moment for me to step back and give the opportunity to someone else to take the team forward.
“I wish everyone at the football club all the best.”
Spooner successfully saved the Tigers from relegation in his first season in charge before embarking on two successive seasons with sixth-placed finishes.
Hyde also lifted the first Cheshire Senior Cup title for the first time in 27 years in 2024 and reached two Manchester Premier Cup Finals.
Spooner’s first team coach, one-cap England international Gavin McCann, has also left.
A spokesperson for Hyde United said: “The club regret that their tenure here has come to an end and would like to thank Nick and Gavin for all of their hard work over the past three-and-a-half years and wish them all the best for the future in whatever comes next.
“They will always be welcomed back at the Project Solar Stadium.
“This news came as a shock to the board.”