Heathcote walks away from Marston Road

Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Stafford Rangers are on the lookout for their fourth manager in 12 months after Graham Heathcote walked away from Marston Road on Monday night.

Heathcote, pictured, who took over in January following the sacking of Andy Mutch, parted company with Rangers following a meeting with club officials to plan for next season’s budget.

The Altrincham legend became Rangers’ third manager of a traumatic season following Mutch and his predecessor Greg Clowes but could not halt their slide out of the Evo-Stik NPL’s Premier Division, the club’s third relegation in six years as they conceded 112 goals and used more than 60 players in 42 games.

Rangers, who are also without a chairman following Rod Woodward’s resignation in the wake of their relegation in April, announced the news on their official website.

In a statement to supporters, the club said: "A meeting was held between the board and Graham Heathcote to discuss the way forward. We are disappointed to tell everyone that we could not reach a satisfactory conclusion and Graham will not be continuing in his role as manager.

"Graham did not feel able to commit to the club within the playing budget that the club could afford. Both parties were always aware that finances would be tight and our first responsibility is to ensure the continuation of the football club.

"Graham accepted the difficulty he would encounter in recruiting players out of the local area and the additional costs that this would incur which made the budget in his opinion not viable.

"We would like to express our thanks and gratitude to him for the work he has done in the short period he has been at the club."

The club added: "This was not the news that we expected or wanted to bring you. Our efforts will now concentrate on putting a new structure in place at the earliest opportunity and we will keep you all informed."