It’s not the job for Joe

Joe Royle: won't be staying at Boundary Park

Latics latest: Royle set to leave Latics

ATHLETIC were today beginning the search for a new manager after revealing caretaker chief Joe Royle’s final match will be at Walsall on Saturday.

The 60-year-old Royle explained that his return was only ever going to be for the final nine games of the season after agreeing to take over following the departure of John Sheridan.

“I have not quit and I’ve not been sacked. It was only ever going to be a short stint to the end of the season,” said Royle.

While Royle will not be remaining as manager, he has agreed to continue to help the club in whatever way the board wish. But he says it will be in an advisory capacity and not as a director of football.

“I am here if they want me, but there is a fine line between sitting in the top of the stand and being an albatross for a new manager,” he continued.

Chief executive Alan Hardy said: “When Joe kindly agreed to help us out six weeks ago, it was always with just the last nine games of the season in mind.

“After openly discussing the situation with the owners and myself, Joe felt the best option for the club to take was to look for a younger man to take the helm.

“However, Joe has agreed to continue to help, but without the day-to-day involvement. The arrangement suits both parties.”

Mr Hardy added that Royle returned at a difficult time, but had been able to address a number of issues and prepare a blueprint for next season.

Royle said: “I sat down with Simon Blitz, Simon Corney and Alan Hardy and we talked about what was needed to take the club forward.

“It is still the club I knew 15 years ago, and I retain a lot of affection for the people here, the club and the fans. This is a committed board of directors which is keen to move the club forward as quickly as possible, and I am sure the right appointment can be made.”