One thing that is top of my list is to enjoy my football, says Jason Lillis

Lillis, 44, opted to leave his manager’s job at Lordswood in the summer to become Nicky Southall’s number two at The Belmont.

“After long, hard consideration over a couple of months I have had a chat with Nicky and I have decided to stand down as assistant manager,” Lillis told www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk.  

“I explained to Nicky my reasons. I have big expectations and I am a very committed person, but one thing that is top of my list of expectations is to enjoy my football.

“When you feel that the enjoyment is not there it is hard to be as committed as you should be.

“I really hope things turn around and Whitstable Town push up the league.”

The players and staff were advised of Lillis departure after last night’s 2-1 victory over Ramsgate at Southwood Stadium.

Whitstable Town climbed out of the Ryman League Division One South relegation zone into 18^th place with 30 points from 25 games. 

Southall’s side have a number of games in hand on the teams around them in the table and won their eighth league game of the season thanks to goals from Jordan Wells and Scott Heard.

Ramsgate were managed by caretaker manager Dean Hill, with Mark Weatherley assisting, for the first time after the club axed Tim Dixon and Darren Beale after their 2-1 home win over Tooting & Mitcham United at the weekend.

Whitstable Town chairman Gary Johnson revealed Lillis has an ever expanding and challenging role within education which has also impacted his availability.

He said: “Jason is a big character and I’d like to place on record my sincere thanks for his contribution to the club since he joined from Lordswood during pre-season.

“He has also introduced a number of players to the club, a number of whom are now starting to grow in confidence and ability at this level.

“I thank him for his support of Nicky, the players and the club and wish him every success in wherever his future path takes him.”

Meanwhile, the club also begin the search for a new kit-man after Gary Nelson has left due to his increased workloads, shifts and limited availability, impacting upon the support he has been able to provide his good and very close friend Southall.

Mr Johnson added: “Gary has been a pleasure to work with and have around the place, clearly at this level of football employment commitments must come first.  I’m therefore disappointed for Nicky and again wish Gary well.”

The club have confirmed that Under 21 development manager Bob Reardon will aid Southall until Lillis’ replacement has been announced.

The Oystermen welcome Merstham to The Belmont on Thursday night (7:45pm)
 
Visit Whitstable Town’s website: www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk