SURGERY FORCES BENTLEY TO TAKE A BREAK
JIM BENTLEY has been ordered to take time out from his role as AFC Fylde boss after being told he requires heart surgery.
The former Morecambe boss failed to halt a dramatic slide at Mill Farm this season as the Coasters dropped out of the National League.
And now his preparations for next season have been hit after undergoing extensive tests with medical professionals.
Speaking to the club’s website, the 44-year-old boss explained: “At the start of the year I had some chest pains whilst doing a bit of training. After getting checked out I was told I had a blockage in one of my arteries.
“I had some more tests and was placed on medication to help my condition. Due to the Covid situation, I haven’t been able to get into hospital but I finally went in to Liverpool Chest & Heart hospital this week to have a Coronary Angiogram and stent fitted, but whilst the doctor was carrying out the procedure he noticed that my condition was a bit worse than first thought.
“It was then recommended I have a heart bypass instead. It’s not the news I wanted but I am thankful I got checked out when I did as this could have been a lot worse. I’m looking forward to getting sorted and being back fit doing the job I love as soon as possible.”
AFC Fylde chief executive Jonty Castle, said: “First and foremost our well wishes are with Jim and that the surgery goes as planned so he makes a speedy recovery.
“We are in constant contact and he has kept myself and the chairman fully up-to-date with his progress.
“Jim’s a popular figure at Mill Farm amongst the staff, players and the fans so all of us will be looking forward to him returning as soon as he can to lead the club in our 2020-21 campaign.
“Until his return, we will all be continuing the hard-work behind-thescenes and giving Jim our full support with anything he may need to help with his recovery.”