BROMSGROVE Sporting manager Paul Smith has resigned with immediate effect, it has been confirmed.
The Rouslers boss signalled his intention to stand down from his position at the end of the season on Twitter on Friday.
His shock announcement came after contract talks stalled at last Tuesday’s executive committee meeting and Smith stated he had not resigned immediately because of the support from the fans.
After that, the Sporting’s board of directors decided to have a meeting on Monday to discuss the issue and it was confirmed they had offered Smith a further meeting today (Wednesday) to plan and discuss the future direction of the Rouslers and to resolve any differences.
An independent chairman hosted the meeting and in a statement released today, it said: “Unfortunately, Paul felt that he did not have the full support of the board and decided to resign as manager immediately rather than at the end of the season.”
Chairman Mike Burke added: “It is regrettable that that Paul has decided to resign now but we are grateful for all he has achieved for the club in his four-and-a-half years here.
“We wish him well for the future”.
Assistant manager Brendan Kelly will take over as manager as the Midland League Premier Division leaders look to secure back-to-back promotions.
The board of directors, the Bromsgrove Sporting Supporters Society and the team management have now agreed to work together for the benefit of the club.
Smith Tweeted earlier, saying the ‘beast’ of a non-League club had been awoken and hoped it ‘continued to grow’.
A huge thank you to the @SportingFC fans that have supported me during my time at the club. This beast of a non league club has been awoken. I hope it continues to grow. Unfortunately I won’t be a part going forward. Some tremendous memories & times that I won’t ever forget. ⚽️
— Paul smith (@pdscontractflo2) February 28, 2018
