York City mourn former manager McEwan

By Jon Couch

TRIBUTES have flooded in for former York City manager Billy McEwan, who died this week at the age of 70.

The Scottish boss took charge of the Minstermen for two season, between February 2005 and November 2007, leading them to an eighth-placed finish in the Conference in his first full season in charge and a play-off place in his second, before they were beaten by eventual promotion winners Morecambe.

McEwan, who had previously held managerial positions at Sheffield United, Rotherham United, Darlington and Derby County, left the club in November 2007 after seven home league defeats.

He went onto manage Mansfield Town before being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2014.

A York City statement read: “York City Football Club are saddened to learn the passing of former manager Billy McEwan, aged 70.

“Billy managed York City from 2005 and 2007 and brought through fan favourites such as Clayton Donaldson, Daniel Parslow, Andy Bishop and Richard Brodie during his tenure.

TRIBUTE: Billy McEwan

“His team also reached the Conference play-off semi-final in 2007, where we were unlucky to lose to Morecambe.

“Our thoughts are with Billy’s family and friends at this sad time. RIP.”

Former fans’ favourite Parslow, who played over 300 games for the club in two spells, tweeted: “Terrible news, forever grateful for Billy taking a chance on me all those years ago. Thoughts are with all his friends and family.”

The York City Past Players Association added: “We are sad to hear that former York City manager Billy Mc- Ewan has passed away.

“Our condolences and thoughts are with Billy’s family and friends at this sad time. RIP Billy.”