Linnets hunt for Calum’s replacement
McIntyre departs to take charge of Chester’s first XI
RUNCORN Linnets are looking for a new manager after the departure of Calum McIntyre to take charge as first-team boss at Chester FC
McIntyre had been with Linnets since July 2020 while also serving his “new” club as Head of Academy.
In a statement, Runcorn Linnets said: “Calum has done a tremendous job since becoming Linnets boss in the summer of 2020 and we are more than disappointed to see him leave.
“However, it has been clear from day one that Calum has the ability to match his ambition in the game.
“The chance has come sooner for him than we would have wanted.
“But Runcorn Linnets recognise that this is a unique opportunity for Calum to manage at a higher level with the home city club with which he already has strong connections and indeed supports.”
Club chairman, Peter Cartledge said: “Calum has built a great and genuine rapport with all at Runcorn Linnets and has been incredibly diligent, honest and professional in everything he has done.
“It has been an absolute pleasure to have worked with him and have him as our manager. We are sure he is destined for big things in his football career.
“He has performed his duties with integrity, a real passion and a sense of pride, while assembling and developing a squad of players with undoubted talent and spirit.”
Last season was the Linnets most successful yet in terms of on-the-field performance, reaching the promotion play-off final in the Northern Premier League West Division.
The Linnets chairman added: “Calum deserves every credit for achieving this in his first completed season in charge.
“We thank Calum for his major contribution and total commitment during his time as our manager. He has put his heart and soul into the role and we wish him every success as he moves on to familiar pastures new.”
Calum attended the club’s Awards Evening on Friday to say his farewells.
Runcorn have begun the search for McIntyre’s successor by advertising the post immediately.
McIntyre’s assistant manager Colin Woodthorpe will join him as No2 at Chester.
Chairman Cartledge said: “We are delighted that Colin has not only been successful at Runcorn Linnets but very much enjoyed his time with us, like Calum showing a commitment which is second to none.
“We wish Colin well on his return to the National League and assure him and his family – especially son Ash, who we have all got to know and love – of a warm welcome whenever they come back to see us in the future.”
Meanwhile, the Linnets Trust Board has accepted the resignation from the board of Dave Jones, who served as club chairman from January 2021 until February this year, when he stepped down from the role due to health issues.
Tendering his resignation from the board, he said: “It has been an honour to be a member of the Trust Board and to be chairman for a year but I need some time to concentrate on myself and getting myself better.”