Pic: Stoke Sentinel
IVAN LODGE has stepped down as manager of Evo-Stik NPL South side Newcastle Town to concentrate on recovering from his recent operation.
Lodge, 52, underwent emergency surgery in early March to remove a blood clot on the brain after returning from a short holiday abroad.
His recovery is going well but the boss, who was appointed manager in September 2013 after John Diskin's resignation, thinks it's best for the club to go in a different direction.
He led the club to an eighth place finish in his first season in charge before defeat in the play-off semi-finals last term. Castle are currently sitting in 14th ahead of Saturday's trip to Goole.
Lodge told the Stoke Sentinel: “The recovery is going well, but while I concentrate on getting better, I'm not going to have the time to do what all managers do at this time of the year and that's start planning for next season.
“It's time consuming talking to current players and players you want to bring into the club. On top of that there is also my job to think about.”
Caretaker manager Dave Dale, who took over in Lodge's absence, will be in charge for Saturday's final game of the season at Goole.
A club statement read: “Newcastle Town Football Club regret to announce that Ivan Lodge has stepped down as manager of the first team with immediate effect. Ivan has made the decision in order to concentrate on returning to full health after his recent illness.
“The club would like to place on record their gratitude to Ivan for helping to establish and consolidate the club in the Evo-Stik NPL. He will remain a vital part of the club in the future.
“With this being said, the football club would like to invite applicants for the position of first team manager/head coach. The role will suit someone with experience of this level of football, an ability to work within a budget and a desire to work at a club where youth development will remain important.”
