Blue Square North club Stalybridge Celtic have announced that experienced Benny Phillips will act as caretaker-manager following the departure of boss Steve Burr to Blue Square Premier side Kidderminster Harriers.
Despite being under contract until May 2011, Burr was approached by Kidderminster some weeks ago and, following considerable protracted debate, an agreement was reached for him to move to Aggborough.
Celtic chairman Rob Gorski said: “Steve has done an excellent job for us, as evidenced by our success at reaching the 2008 play-offs and the stylish football that we play.
“The timing of his departure is not what I had in mind in a season where we are looking at a very real chance of promotion, but after major consideration, we have reluctantly formed the conclusion that keeping a manager whose ambitions lie elsewhere would not be in the best of interests of the club. I genuinely wish Steve well in his future career and thank him for the tremendous contribution he has made.
“However, we retain a wonderful squad of players and I am confident that they can still gain promotion. We still look forward to exciting times at Stalybridge Celtic.”
Phillips has previously managed the likes of Congleton Town, Ashton United, Grove, Bramhall and Mossley.
