Club legend back to rescue Basford

By Neil Harvey

RETURN: Martin Carruthers

MARTIN CARRUTHERS says the opportunity of returning to Basford United was one he simply could not turn down.

Carruthers is seen as the Lions’ most successful ever manager after leading them to five promotions in seven years.

Now, just a fortnight after resigning at Matlock Town, the man they call Gandiman is back at Greenwich Avenue in a bid to save them from relegation in NPL Premier.

Carruthers, 51, left Basford in March 2019 having guided the club from the depths of the Notts Senior League to Step 3, picking up two county cups along with way.

The former Stoke City, Southend and Scunthorpe forward went on to manage Quorn and Ilkeston Town before a twoyear spell at Matlock led him back to Basford.

He will work with the existing management team of Danny Holmes and Andrew Danylyszyn, who will revert to previous roles of assistant manager and head coach.

“I am absolutely delighted to be re-joining Basford,” Carruthers said. “I did not expect to be returning to football so quickly, but this was an opportunity that I could not turn down. Basford has always been in my heart and after all the past successes I feel I have unfinished business here.

“Having met Chris, Stan and Milo, it was clear that they wanted me back at the club and that we can put a plan and structure in place that will create a great community environment and bring positive vibes back to the club.

“I know most of the players well and it’s clear we have real quality within the squad and need a big push in the last six games to help us retain our Step 3 status. It won’t be easy, but with hard work, everyone pulling together, lots of positivity and energy I don’t see any reason why we can’t achieve this together.”