HYDE United Football Club has moved quickly to appoint Michael Clegg as their new manager.
The appointment of the former Ashton United boss came less than 48 hours after Martin Coyne quit, as the Tigers look to climb out of the Northern Premier League Premier Division relegation zone.
Clegg becomes the Tameside club’s third boss of the season and will take charge until the end of the campaign initially.
Coyne stepped down following Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat to Rushall Olympic – a result that left Hyde third from bottom in the table.
Clegg will be in the dugout for the first time on Tuesday evening (January 27) when Hyde travel to Gainsborough Trinity. The 41-year-old will be assisted by current club captain Jack Redshaw, as he looks to end a winless league run stretching back to November 1.
The club confirmed the appointment in a statement on Monday (January 26), with the decision largely welcomed by supporters on social media.
Clegg arrives with extensive experience at this level, having previously managed Atherton Collieries, Ashton United, Warrington Rylands and Macclesfield FC. His knowledge of the local non-league scene is seen as a key asset as Hyde battle for survival in the closing months of the campaign.
Coyne’s resignation brought an end to a difficult three-month spell in charge. He oversaw 11 league games without a win but will remain at the club in a coaching role with the junior teams.
He was appointed at the start of October following an interim spell as manager after Nick Spooner resigned in September.
In a message to supporters, Coyne said: “Firstly, I’d like to thank everyone who has shown me support throughout my time at the club, especially Harry and Chris who have been by my side with tremendous support.”
Reflecting on his time in charge, he added: “I took charge of the team on an interim basis and we achieved some positive results notably in the FA Cup.
“Unfortunately, since November, league results haven’t matched our performances, and in the best interests of the club – to give it the strongest possible chance of survival in the NPL – I felt it was right that someone new comes in to try and steer the team forward.
“It’s been a pleasure and an honour to be involved with the first team for the past seven years, and the experience I’ve gained has been invaluable.”
Coyne reserved particular praise for the supporters, saying: “The fans have been truly remarkable throughout my time as manager. The support you’ve shown has meant a great deal to me and is something I will always treasure.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t be the man to change the course of the season but I have given it my all. Whatever happens this club will always be in my heart.”