Abbott steps up a level to succeed

Pictured congratulating one his players before stepping down at the fan-run Midland League outfit on Tuesday after three years at the helm, the 35-year-old met the EVO-STIK League South club's squad for the first time at training on Thursday night ahead of a trip to Chasetown on Saturday in the Buildbase FA Trophy.

Former Wolverhampton Wanderers, Hednesford Town, Halesowen Harriers, Sandwell Borough, Stourport Swifts, Alvechurch star Abbott became the first manager of Hinckley in 2014 after it was formed by fans following the demise of the old Hinckley United.

A UEFA B qualified coach, he cut his teeth in management at Wolverhampton Casuals after injury cut short his playing career, leading the club to three successive third placed finishes in the West Midlands Premier Division. In his first season with AFC Hinckley, he guided them to another third place finish, his side scoring over 100 goals in the process and setting a new Midland Football League record with a 27 match unbeaten run.

Davies was relieved of his duties at the Greenfields Sports Ground on Wednesday after two seasons in the hot-seat and an 18 year association with the club following his side's 2-1 defeat to Alvechurch the night before.

Market Daryton Town chairman Ben Cockram paid tribute to Davies as a "loyal servant" in a statement following his departure, writing: “I am very grateful for the hard work that Martyn has put into his management and coaching roles at the club and wish him the very best with his management career going forward.

"He has been a loyal servant to the club for the past 18 years and we are by no means closing the door on him here at Greenfields. We will always welcome him with open arms at the club and we remain incredibly appreciative of the fantastic service he has given us over the years.”

Image courtesy of @hinckley_afc/Twitter

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