Howard leaves role as Heyside manager

GEOFF HOWARD . . . relinquished manager role because of work commitments

GEOFF Howard has stepped down as manager of Heyside after guiding the club from the Huddersfield and District League to the Premier Division of the FBT Manchester League in just three years.

Increased work commitments mean that the highly-successful manager will reluctantly leave his post.

"HORIZON"

Howard said: "I have a new role on the horizon in a very senior position and the time is probably right.

"I would have loved to have a go at the Premier Division but timing sometimes dictates. After nine years of managing and over 20 years playing it's time for a break.

"Saturdays are a premium now, so I can't give or guarantee the same commitment to Heyside as I would want to give.

"I'll still be around watching a few games next year and hopefully get to see Latics a bit more."

Howard's replacement in the Heyside hot seat will be 27-year-old Matt Wheelton, who played for Heyside in the past and is a well-known local football figure.

Wheelton said: "It was something of a surprise when I was approached to become manager and it all happened fairly quickly.

"I go back seven or eight years with Geoff and know him well having played under him at Oldham Hulmeians. It speaks volumes for him that he has been honest about his reasons for leaving because he is a fully-committed man.

"It's a privilege to be the new manager and I like to see football done right. We'll give it a good go in the top flight and we're certainly not in there just to make up the numbers.

"I know most of the players already but I think we might need some fresh faces to compete at this level."

Heyside chairman Mick Cummins said: "Initially it came as a shock but Geoff had previously sounded us out about a potential change in his circumstances.

"He's done a fantastic job in changing the face of Heyside FC to a more forward-looking club. He'll still be involved with us and will help out when needed.

"Matt Wheelton will be a suitable replacement and that appointment was made very quickly."