Wellens - 'It was the right time for us to part ways'

Former Athletic boss Richie Wellens

Former Athletic manager Richie Wellens appears to bear no grudge towards the club following his recent sacking.

Wellens’ services were dispensed with on June 8 after just less than a season in charge, one which ended with devastating relegation to League Two.

However, the 38-year-old has thanked his former Boundary Park employers and vowed to learn from his experiences.

“It’s hard not to look back on last season with disappointment and regrets, but unfortunately we were always fighting against the odds to keep Oldham in League 1,” said Wellens in a statement issued via the League Managers’ Association.
 
“The early success was a result of hard work from the players, who adapted to the system we devised and bought in to the attractive style of play and pressing game.

“We managed to build some momentum but unfortunately, we were lacking in squad depth and options at key times in the season, and there is no hiding place in that division with games coming thick and fast on Saturdays and Tuesdays, against competitive sides.
 
“I will make no excuses though. I am absolutely gutted that we didn’t manage to achieve our aim, despite taking matters to the final day and achieving a competitive return of 46 points from 37 games.
 
“I am proud of the players and the staff for their professionalism and their endeavour. I am sorry for the supporters, who deserve better than what happened.

“It was the right time for us to part ways and for me to move on to the next step of my managerial career.

“I have learned a great deal from the experience and hope to find a role with a club that matches my ambition and believes in a long-term project; to develop players, a club identity and a playing philosophy. I know exactly what it takes to achieve success, and I believe that with the right ingredients I can deliver this as a manager.
 
“I will continue to be a student of the game, watching matches and players, building my experience and qualifications, in preparation for my next challenge.

“I retain the passion and desire I had as a player, and I am all the stronger for my season with Oldham.”     

Meanwhile, winger Gyamfi Kyeremeh has left Athletic after his contract was mutually terminated.

The 23-year-old Belgian made just one appearance for the club, in a 2-0 home League one defeat by Wigan last August.