BREAKING: Michael Ellison appointed Runcorn Linnets manager after Brad Cooke resigns
In a whirlwind 24 hours, Michael Ellison has replaced Brad Cooke.
Michael Ellison has replaced Brad Cooke as manager following his resignation.
The former Atherton Collieries boss has resigned on the back of their 5-0 defeat to Witton Albion.
Assistant Rob Sadler also leaves his role.
The announcements came 25 minutes apart with Ellison, who guided Linnets to the Northern Premier League in 2017/18 and steered Widnes out of the division last season.
Linnets are still in the fight for the playoffs and the decision from Cooke and Sadler comes as a shock.
The players received a message from the departing managerial group on Friday evening, days before they return to action against Chasetown.
It’s understood that despite the disappointing announcement, the departing duo are behind the decision to appoint Ellison.
The decision comes with the club taking 19 points out of the last 10, with only Avro, Vauxhall Motors and Bury picking up more.
It has been suggested that the old management group feel that Ellison and his backroom staff can get the best out of the current squad. Linnets sit 10 points off league leaders Lower Breck and just one point off the top five with a game in hand.
Ellison will return to the club and reunite with Lee Bignell, who was on the backroom staff for Widnes’ title-winning campaign last term.
In a statement posted on Linnets’ social media, Cooke said: “I would like to thank Pete and Jeff for giving me and Rob the opportunity to manage this incredible football club.
“Yesterday was a real low point and a performance that is really difficult to accept but I don’t want that to tarnish the work that’s gone into getting to this point.
“When we walked through the door our ambition was to bring success and the good times back to Runcorn and we feel that has been achieved, but in order to take this group to the next level we feel a change is required.
“That’s the focus for me, and the change in manager with the club in a healthy position in the league feels the right decision for all involved. The club has to capitalise on recent success, the new appointment gives me comfort knowing that the club is in good hands and will be managed by a brilliant man.
“Winning the Cheshire Senior Cup, the record-breaking FA Cup run, and the push for the play-offs has been brilliant, but working with and for good people has been the biggest highlight. It’s restored my faith in football, in a world full of ego and misinformation, Runcorn leads the way in honesty and hard work.
“I appreciate every single one of you that put time and effort into the club for little to no rewards, the unseen heroes!! I’m sure you will get the success you deserve.
”To the players, past and present however big or small thanks for your contribution and efforts.
“Finally to the fans, quite simply thank you. You are the best about by some distance. Your support has been unwavering, and your love for your football club is unmatched. Keep being loud and proud, and keep the Murdishaw Massive on their toes
“Thanks again, and good luck for the future.”
The departure from Cooke has sparked an outpouring of support for the tactician.
Cooke has been widely tipped to progress through the divisions in the dugout and already this season he has turned down an approach from a higher division to remain at the APEC Taxis Stadium.
Now out of the post, Cooke will be not short of suitors.