Stockport County will be part-time next season following their relegation in to the Blue Square Bet North.
The board of directors held detailed discussions with manager Ian Bogie before reaching their decision today, although it only equates to two hours less training a week.
Vice-chairman Spencer Fearn said the decision was very much a temporary measure and would be up for review should the club be promoted next season.
“This decision has not been taken lightly,” he told the clubs website.
“But it is the most appropriate way to take the club forward and keep Stockport County sustainable in non-league football.
“Going part-time is, we believe, the right way forward – we were relegated last season despite having a full-time squad, whilst part-time teams such as Dartford and Woking finished well up the Blue Square Premier League.
“In addition, we felt that as custodians of Stockport County we could not afford to gamble with the future of the club.
“We know only too well about the financial difficulties currently affecting other teams not too far away from here.”
Moving to a part-time set up means the club will now train three times a week instead of four, and boss Ian Bogie said the decision was inevitable.
“I have achieved success in this league before on a part-time basis, and I would prefer to be given a healthy part-time budget than a massively reduced full-time budget,” he said.
“You also have to question experienced, full-time players who would want to drop down to play at this level – this is the right way to go.”
Bogie added that he and Alan Lord have already spoken to several prospective signings and that he is glad the decision has been taken early.
“We’re in for a very busy summer and, with the backing of the fans, I believe we can put out a really exciting and successful side next season,” he said.
Picture courtesy of Stockport County FC, with thanks
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