Ex-boss returns to rescue Royals

Neil Tooth has swapped one EVO-STIK League relegation battle for another after leaving Romulus to make a sensational return to Sutton Coldfield Town.

Tooth accepted an offer to return as Royals boss on Monday with immediate effect to succeed his own successor Richard Sneekes less than 48 hours after the Dutchman's departure on Saturday night.

The former West Bromwich Albion midfielder and legend was relieved of his duties after just over two years at the helm at Coles Lane after a late penalty saw the rock-bottom Royals lose 4-3 at home to Rushall Olympic.

Tooth, who led the club to promotion to the Northern Premier League, is now looking forward to maintaining their hard-won status as starts putting his back room together in preparation for his first game back in charge, Workington at home on Saturday 27 January.

After stepping down as Roms number two, he told Royals fans: "I am really pleased to return to the club I love. Everyone knows the history but that is what it is ... just history. My eyes are now firmly on the future and doing whatever I can to keep us up."

Sutton Coldfield Town chairman Nick Thurston said: "We are very happy to have Toothy back. We need someone who we know and will have an immediate impact and he fits the bill perfectly. Having parted company with Richard and Steve, it was important to move quickly and we will now support Toothy in his role and everything that needs to be done."

The Roms, who are propping up the EVO-STIK League South table, wished Tooth well after he helped manager Richard Evans to guide the club to a 1-1 draw at Spalding United on Saturday in his final game before standing down.

The former Hednesford Town manager had been coaching since his departure from the Pitmen in September and @Romulus_fc tweeted: "Toothie’s heading back to @SCTFC and we wish him well. Thanks, Neil, for all your help over the past two months, it’s been much appreciated, and you’ve made a difference. From one relegation scrap to another, and let’s hope we both win our respective battles. Good luck!"

Image courtesy of www.thenonleaguefootballpaper.com

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