Difference of opinion forces Gorman to quit

Wednesday 16th December 2009

PAUL GORMAN has resigned as manager of Kent League side Erith & Belvedere, leaving Richie Radbourne in sole charge of team affairs at Park View Road, writes Stephen McCartney.

Gorman has had his resignation reluctantly accepted by the board of directors last night and has left the club with immediate effect.

“Paul cited differences of opinion with co-manager Richie Radbourne as the reason for his departure and we of course wish him every success in his future endeavours,” said a club statement, posted on www.erithandbelvederefc.co.uk.

“He will be missed by many at the club and will be made to feel very welcome should he visit us in the future."

The former Charlton Athletic striker made an immediate impact on everybody at the club upon his arrival at Park View Road with his bright and breezy personality and unparalleled humour.

Also leaving the club is midfield play-maker John-Paul Collier, who has accepted an approach from Faversham Town and will link up with current Bulmers Cider Kent Football League leaders this week.

"It's been a tricky couple of weeks," said sole manager Radbourne.

"We've lost a couple of very good players, and of course Paul, but I firmly believe that we still have enough quality in the squad to cope.

"We'll take stock over the next couple of days, have a look at things and see if there are any players that we need to add to the squad to improve things.

“Of course, with Saturday's fixture against Sevenoaks being postponed, we don't have a game now until the New Year so we have plenty of time to sort things out."

The Deres next fixture is scheduled for Saturday, 2nd January, when Radbourne takes his side to Corinthian for a Bulmers Cider Kent League fixture.

Visit Erith & Belvedere’s website: www.erithandbelvederefc.co.uk