Knapper replaces one half of dugout duo

Former Retford Town manager John Knapper is focusing on keeping Rainworth Miners Welfare in the EVO-STIK Northern Premier League after replacing Gary Sucharewycz as joint manager alongside Ian Robinson.

Sucharewycz ended his successful partnership with Robinson last week following their appointment in September to turn around the First Division South club's poor start to the campaign.

A change in Sucharewycz's day job forced him to step down at Kirklington Road and co-manager Robinson moved quickly to bring in Knapper, pictured, to replace his old managerial partner.

Robinson, who has known Knapper as a team-mate since 1997, said: "Gary has just taken on new employment and has a lot of work on. Managing at this level is almost a full-time job in itself, and he found himself unable to commit t it with the amount of work he had on in his new day job.

"It will seem strange not having him around, but I'm pleased to say that John Knapper has come in and will add a bit of experience which will help us to maintain our present league status."

As a highly regarded midfielder, Knapper has plenty of Non-League experience having played for a number of clubs including Staveley Miners Welfare, Belper Town, Alfreton Town, Eastwood Town, Ilkeston and Buxton as well as Chesterfield in the Football League.

He joined Robinson in the dug-out for the first time at Market Drayton in Saturday's 2-2 FA Trophy draw and is relishing his new challenge after his arrival was officially confirmed on Wednesday.

Knapper said: "I've been made to feel very welcome, there are some great people at the club, and after Ian asked me to consider coming on board I didn't need too long to think about it.

"There is still a lot of work to be done, but I'd seen a couple of matches and know the potential that is here. We have a tough job on our hands but keeping us in the league is our immediate priority."

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