Rams release firm favourite

Ramsbottom United midfielder Mark Sharples has quit the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League First Division North club in search of regular football.

The popular midfielder has left the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium along with winger Martin Cosgrave who signed from North West Counties League neighbours Bacup Borough in the summer. Cosgrave is making a swift return to Bacup after finding his opportunities limited under joint managers Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley.

The Rams announced on Thursday that the management duo released fans' favourite Sharples after three and a half years at the club. Sharples was a regular member of their successful side who finished fourth, second and were then crowned NWCL champions to win promotion to the Evo-Stik NPL.

Joint-manager Anthony Johnson explained the reasoning behind the departures and wished both players well.

He said: "Sharpy has obviously left for regular first team football. We are gutted to be losing him but we need to start improving the squad and inevitably there's always casualties. He played a lot of games for the club and has been an integral part of where the club has come from.

"He's got a NWCL winners medal and I know that there'll be a load of clubs fighting for his signature. He's been a great servant and player to the club and is probably the first 'real' player from the original group that we have had to let go.

"I'm sure the supporters will be gutted but its mine and Bernard's job to keep this club moving forward and making tough decisions is a small part of that. Unfortunately Mark wasn't getting the minutes he needed and felt that he would be better looking elsewhere.

"Everyone at the club wishes 'Sharpy' all the best for the future and would like to place on record their sincere thanks for the impact he has made during his time with the Rams."