ROBINSON IN THE PURPS’ HOT-SEAT

FORMER Warrington Town centre half Craig Robinson has been installed as the new player-manager of City of Liverpool.

Robinson takes over the Hallmark Security North West Counties Premier Division side who finished fourth in what was only their third season in existence.

He replaces Simon Burton, who left the club my mutual consent after two years at the helm.

Robinson joined the club as a player a year ago.

A club statement said: “We’d like to pay tribute to the role Simon played since being appointed as manager in 2016, especially the amazing success of season 2016-17 and the squad he built from scratch to achieve that.

“We wish him the best of luck with whatever he does next in football.

“Craig brings with him a wealth of experience throughout the Non-League Pyramid and the respect of everyone at the club; from the tea ladies to the players, to the supporters to the volunteers and directors.”

Craig said: “I wasn’t looking for a role in management at present as I still feel I have got at least one good season left in me on the pitch.

“But once I got approached I spoke to the squad and they have given me total support and along with the support of the directors, I felt it was too good an opportunity to turn down.

“I’m honoured to be given the chance to manage this great club in my home city with so much potential and I’m looking forward to getting stuck into the job and doing my best.”

Chairman Paul Manning added: “Craig is a good lad and very humble, but we have seen his will to win on the pitch and the respect that he commands in football and we know that he has the total support of the playing squad, so we are very confident that we have made the right choice.”