Striker steps up into management

Shaw Lane striker Paul Clayton has left the EVO-STIK League's Ducks to move into management as Guiseley's new assistant manager.

The forward, pictured, is set to leave Sheerien Park next week after the Ducks take on Penistone Church in the last fixture of the 2017-18 season involving a Northern Premier League club, the final of the Sheffield & Hallam Senior Cup at Sheffield United's Bramall Lane on Tuesday 22 May.

The 33-year-old, who made 44 appearances in all competitions for the EVO-STIK League Premier Division club and scored 16 goals, is heading to Nethermoor Park following the appointment of Marcus Bignot and Russ O'Neill on Tuesday as the National League North club's new joint managers.

In a statement confirming his imminent departure, the Ducks said: "We thank Paul for his efforts and wish him all the best at the National League North club next season."

The former Barnsley, Altrincham, Alfreton and Harrogate Town hot-shot signed for Shaw Lane in time for the start of the NPL's historic 50th anniversary 2017-18 campaign. Capped twice by England C, Clayton scored more than 110 goal in two spells with Alfreton Town while gaining a reputation as a hard-working striker and amassing more than 300 appearances for the Derbyshire club.

Image courtesy of @ShawLaneAFC/Twitter

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