Milligan pays tribute to club

Milligan, 40, took over in December and led the club to seven wins before what turned out to be their final game, a 2-1 home defeat to South Shields on March 7.

He told the club’s official website: “The players have been unbelievable since I came in. This has been demonstrated by their willingness to work hard and take on board what we asked them to do. I’m looking forward to working with them again. They really are a top set of lads.

“I want to thank all my coaching staff for backing everything that I have tried to do as a manager.

“I also want to thank all the staff and volunteers away from the playing field, Keith Maguire and George Halliwell who deal with all the administration; our Chairman Brian Ginty and the club committee; our media team of Ruth, Ryan and Alan; Helen and all the clubhouse team; the fantastic ladies in May's Place who keep both supporters and players fed; Russ and Danny who keep the pitch in such superb condition and also all the volunteers who help keep the ground tidy and give up their time to ensure the club runs smoothly.

“And last but not least the brilliant fans. I've had a great relationship with them since day one when I first played for the club, and they have been superb since I took over as manager. I hope the football on show has been entertaining. This club would be nothing without our amazing supporters.”