New Matlock Town boss unveiled

The 50-year-old is the third occupant of the Gladiators hot seat this campaign after Paul Phillips left by mutual consent in September and then his replacement, former Boston United boss Craig Elliott, moved to local rivals Buxton last week.

He will be assisted by Wayne Hallcro, who has extensive managerial experience both as a number one and an assistant at various East Midlands clubs including Belper Town, Ilkeston Town, Grantham Town and Stamford.

Born in Nottingham, Carruthers was a striker who began his playing career in the top flight with Aston Villa, making six first team appearances between 1990 and 1993.

He went on to feature for an extensive list of clubs across the football pyramid, making over 500 appearances in total.

Carruthers’ non-league career began at Grantham Town and then Ilkeston Town, where he was named as player/assistant manager in 2006.

He was joint manager at Arnold Town with former Middlesbrough striker Chris Freestone before signing for Basford United as a player in 2012 and becoming player-manager in 2013.

After six years at Greenwich Avenue when Basford rose from the East Midlands Football League to the Northern Premier League, he went to Quorn as manager but after six months he returned to Ilkeston as head coach, leading the Robins to the Pitching In NPL Midlands Division title last season.

Carruthers left the New Manor Ground by mutual consent in September 2022, with his final game in charge a 2-0 FA Cup win against Matlock at the Proctor Cars Stadium.

“I like to play attacking football to get the fans excited, but the most important thing is to win games of football so game management comes into play,” Carruthers said.

“The style of play will depend on what’s happening in the game, sometimes you may have to go more direct.

“I’m a firm believer that the best form of defence against attacks, will also mean defending from the front. There’s a great fan base here at Matlock and I want them to go home entertained after seeing us play some exciting football.”

On the appointment, Matlock chairman Jay Beaumont said: “I’m delighted that Martin has accepted our offer to become manager of our great club.

“From the very first telephone conversation we had, it was evident that he was excited by our club and the opportunity to lead it for us. When we told him he had got the job, his reaction was once again one of excitement.

“I’m sure Martin’s infectious enthusiasm will prove to be a hit with our players and our supporters alike. I’m really looking forward to working with Martin to achieve all that we can.”

Carruthers’ first game in charge could come on Saturday against Stalybridge Celtic, but freezing conditions suggest it is more likely to be the Boxing Day home derby with Belper Town.

Photo credit: Craig Lamont