Clifford named as new coach

The former Mansfield, Ilkeston, Boston United, Chester and Nuneaton midfielder was unveiled as the successor to Chris Freestone on Monday night after a change in work commitments forced him to leave the First Division South club.

The 38-year-old has been managing the club's U21s since the start of the season and is looking forward to stepping up to work with the first team squad of manager Martin Carruthers at Greenwich Avenue.

Pictured left alongside Carruthers, he told basfordunited.co.uk: “It’s great to be given the opportunity to help steer the club towards even greater heights and I’m looking forward to working with the players at first team level.

"we have some real talent at the club right down to the U14s and I will be converting my experience as a player at this level and above onto the training pitch and into match days, helping to support the players in all areas of their development.”

Carruthers hailed Clifford's addition to his backroom team ahead of their third round clash at home to Wollaton in the Nottinghamshire Senior Cup on Tuesday night.

He said: “I’m sure Mark will be a great addition to the team. He’s been a friend and playing colleague of mine for a number of years, so I am well aware of the qualities he will bring to the fold.

"He knows most of the lads and he will hit the ground running and be a positive influence on the whole team. We share the same enthusiasm and desire to improve and analyse in detail and that will bear fruition in the coming months.”

Paying tribute to Freestone, he added: “Chris has played an integral role in helping the club’s achievements and history making since we took over just over two years ago.

"He’s a great footballing man and great coach and will be sorely missed, although he will still be around to help out when needed.

"He’s assured me that he will still help us out wherever possible, whether that be taking sessions, attending on match days or watching opposition.

"Everyone at Basford United would like to thank Chris Freestone for the professionalism, passion and commitment shown during his time with the club and would like to wish him all the best in his future endeavours."

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