Ryan Cresswell reappointed Matlock boss as Graham Drury quits role
Matlock Town have announced that Ryan Cresswell has returned as manager - less than two weeks after his departure from the club was announced.
Cresswell, who previously managed the club during a six-month spell between September 2024 and March 2025, returns for another stint in the Gladiators dugout.
He ended last season in interim charge following the departure of Adam Clayton.
But following a play-off semi-final defeat to Bradford (Park Avenue), the club announced that Cresswell - along with assistant Ricky Ravenhill, goalkeeping coach Rich Lawrence and physio Andy Henson - had been relieved of their duties.
The club subsequently moved to bring in former Stamford boss Graham Drury.
However, he requested a release from his contract on Thursday due to the "challenge" he and the club faced assembling a squad capable of promotion, given Drury's wider player network was more southern-based.
Now, in another twist to the tale, Cresswell has been welcomed back into the fold, in a move which Matlock owner David Hilton says will satisfy "the need for greater solidarity and unity across the club".
He added: "While I understand this decision may create mixed feelings for some, I believe Ryan and Ricky are the right people to restore the unity we need after a very difficult few weeks for everyone involved - including our supporters.
"The partnership previously delivered an outstanding run of six wins from six matches, securing second place in the league while keeping four clean sheets.
"They are excellent coaches who know the returning players well, and have already begun work on recruitment to ensure we are competitive next season.
"I hope you can all continue to show the same fantastic support you have given me since my arrival and get behind Ryan, Ricky and the players as we move forward together."
The club have been quick to begin their summer business.
Former FC Halifax Town defender Jo Cummings and Ilkeston Town goalkeeper Alfie Roberts have joined Jonny Margetts in becoming new arrivals at the Gladiators.
And despite previously announcing that only three members of last season's squad would be retained, the club have since confirmed that forward Conor Washington, plus midfielders Ben Sault and Fouad Bachirou, have agreed to remain with the club.
Margetts, despite being signed by former boss Drury, has also confirmed that he will remain at the club after positive conversations with owner Hilton and manager Cresswell.
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