Managerial change at Hyde United as former boss returns
Hyde United have confirmed the re-appointment of Nick Spooner as manager, following the departure of Michael Clegg earlier this week.
Clegg arrived at the Project Solar Stadium in January from Atherton Collieries, with the club sitting just above the relegation places.
He led the club to safety, finishing five points above the drop zone at the end of the season.
However, with the Tigers winning four and drawing three of their 15 league games so far this campaign, leaving them in 14th place, a decision was made to change the leadership of the club, with Clegg and his assistants, Joe Bunney and Aaron Wade-Young, departing by mutual consent.
In a statement, Hyde United chairman Steve Hartley said: "These decisions are never easy, and we will be forever grateful to Michael for keeping us in the division, but having had a chat after Saturday’s game and with the position we are in, we agreed that the club needed to take a different direction.
“We have parted on good terms, and Michael and his staff will always be welcome at the Project Solar Stadium.”
In his stead, the club have moved to re-appoint former manager Nick Spooner.
Spooner first took charge of Hyde in February 2022, steering the club away from relegation before leading them to their first Cheshire Senior Cup title in 27 years in 2024.
In September 2025, he announced his departure from the club, citing the need to take a break from football.
Now Spooner returns to the Project Solar Stadium alongside his former assistant manager Gavin McCann.
Chairman Steve Hartley said: "We are delighted to welcome Nick back. He was successful in his first stint as manager, and when he left, we always left the door open for him to return at some point.
"Now he’s had time to reflect, he’s ready and refreshed and wants to help the club back up the table. I am sure that he will have the full backing of the players and supporters.
“We are also delighted to welcome back Gavin McCann as Nick’s assistant. Nick will meet the players and take training ahead of Saturday’s FA Trophy tie at Avro.”