Hall steps down as number two

The Whites announced the departure of Hall on Friday as manager Sam Wilkinson prepared his side for Saturday's 0-0 draw with EVO-STIK League South rivals Belper Town in the Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round.

In a statement regretting Hall's departure from the Sun-Hat Villas & Resorts Stadium, Wilkinson also moved swiftly to name former Chelsea, Burton Albion, Gainsborough Trinity, Grantham Town defender Stuart Reddington as his successor with coach Martin Burnett in a supporting role.

Wilkinson said: “I’m gutted that Chris has decided to call it a day at the club, but I fully respect his decision. Involvement in Non-League football requires a massive commitment in terms of time spent training, travelling, playing and holding down a full-time job. Sometimes other considerations have to take priority.

“He will be missed in a number of ways. Personally, he was always there for me and has had a calming influence in and around the changing rooms and on the side lines. He brought great football knowledge to our management team and was a great assistant manager for Lincoln United.”

Lincoln United chairman Rob Bradley added: “On behalf of the club as a whole I would like to thank Chris for the work he has done in developing our playing squad to the level it is now. His experience in the game and contribution he has made has been extremely valuable and we wish him well in the future.”

Hall, pictured, told fans he was sorry to be leaving, telling the club's website: “It is with a heavy heart I have had to part ways with Lincoln United. Unfortunately, I have had to make a decision regarding my long road back from injury and that decision has been to retire from playing.

“Although I feel strong, fit and hungry to play, I have to be sensible and do what is right for me and my family and the risk of injury is just too much. My plan was always to finish my career at this club – a club I was given a chance with over fifteen years ago by John Wilkinson, who set me on my way in my career. The hope was to finish it playing regularly and back to my best, sadly that hasn’t materialised.

"I am thankful to Sam for giving me the opportunity to be his assistant. It was a role I’m very proud to have fulfilled and I thoroughly enjoyed working with Sam and the players. Although I could have stayed under that role, the frustration of not being able to play would be too much."

He added: "I finally want to wish Sam, the players and the club all the best for the future. I will be supporting them from afar.”

Image courtesy of @LincolnUnited

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