McKnight leaves Frickley role

McKnight, through his role at the North of England Football Academy, has been involved for the past three years and has been instrumental in improving the way the club is run.

That includes the completion and opening of the pavilion, the creation of the Frickley Athletic Community Foundation (which he will remain a director of), moving the academy in to the main club, clearing the club’s creditor base and re-developing the club’s media output.

Alongside his departure, it has been confirmed that NEFA are to write-off a significant six-figure sum of loans in to the club.

McKnight said: “We have had a hugely positive experience at Frickley and it is sad to say goodbye to the club and the friends we have made. We are, however, doing so with the club in a much stronger financial and structural position to the one we arrived to.

“The club didn’t have much of a chance three years ago and was in a very poor financial position. I am confident that with the people and plans in place there is no reason why the club can’t continue to serve its supporters and local community with the pride that defines the club and South Elmsall.”

Meanwhile, in a statement, the club said it is well positioned to get through this difficult period, though requires further support moving forward, particularly in the form of volunteers.

More than £7,000 has been received in donations.