Valley boss happy to stand down

The former Atherstone and Tamworth boss, pictured, tendered his resignation at Butlin Road over the weekend, seven months after succeeding former Rushden & Diamonds midfielder Gary Mills.

Since taking over with the team struggling near the foot of the First Division South table, the 48-year-old has transformed the club's fortunes with his side heading into the final weeks of the season with a play-off berth still in sight.

In an interview with the Tamworth Herald ahead of Tuesday night's fixture at home to Daventry Town, Belford said: "I have enjoyed my time at Rugby and I have got a smile back on my face now. It was a difficult time when I left Tamworth. I had been with the club for a long time, in different guises, and it took a lot out of me.

"When I left, I actually wanted to take a break from football for the first time in my life. Of course, you get the urge to get back involved and when the opportunity came up at Rugby I took it. I had to think long and hard about it because it was a tough job and the side was in a precarious position. But I decided to go for it and through hard work we have had an incredible turnaround really."

"I was tasked with keeping the club in this level of the non-League Pyramid, and this has been achieved. Now the primary objective of my appointment has been attained, both myself and the club have concluded that a different direction would be best in the longer-term.

"There's no fall out, it has been very amicable. The fans have been brilliant and I want to thank the club for giving me the opportunity to get back involved in the game. For me, Rugby have helped me get my love back for the game and I am ready for a new challenge now."

He added: "I think I have managed to prove something to some people and also myself with how I have done at Rugby. If there were people who had an element of doubt or who questioned me as a manager, I think I have proved a point.

"Hopefully there is another opportunity for me somewhere now. I am really keen for that chance to achieve something. I have always had jobs in difficult circumstances but I would love the chance now to stay involved in the game and win trophies."

Rugby Town director Neil Melvin thanked Belford for his efforts in a statement confirming his departure next month on the club's website.

He said: "Dale has done a great job for the club. When he took over we were in a precarious position in the table and whatever happens now he has surpassed any expectations. By announcing the decision at this point, we hope that it eliminates any uncertainty and distraction ahead of what hopefully will be the completion of a great turnaround in fortunes on the pitch."

He added: "We’re also pleased that Dale will have an active role in helping to find his replacement, so ensuring that we maintain as much continuity as possible going into the 2016-17 season."

Image courtesy of www.rugbytownfc.com

Follow us: @evostikleague on Twitter | Facebook www.facebook.com/evostikleague | The NPL Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/TheNPL/