Southport FC manager Neil Danns has resigned following a poor start to the club’s National League North season.
His departure comes following a 2-0 defeat to newly-promoted Spalding United yesterday, which leaves Southport languishing in 22nd place.
The result at Spalding means that Southport have picked up just 5 points in their opening 6 games.
Of those, the club secured just a single point against three newly-promoted sides in their opening six games. A 4-1 drubbing of Bedford Town at Haig Avenue remains the club’s only competitive win of the season.
The Haig Avenue side are set to host arch-rivals Morecambe for their first competitive meeting in 20 years on Tuesday.
Danns took charge at Southport at the beginning of last season, producing a similarly underwhelming start. A significant squad rebuild midway through the campaign saw a strong upturn in form, including a spell of 9 league games unbeaten, resulting in famous wins against AFC Fylde and Yeovil Town in the FA Trophy.
Just 90 minutes from Wembley, Southport fell just short against Southend United at a sold out Haig Avenue.
Assistant manager Mark Duffy is set to take temporary charge of the side.
Southport owners Dave Cunningham & Kieran Malone said: “Neil will continue to support the Club in the short term as we manage the transition and consider the next steps for the first team.
“Neil has given an enormous amount to Southport and this Club has meant a great deal to him. Throughout his time as manager, he has represented Southport with dignity, care and a genuine desire to move the Club forward. He has built real relationships with the players, staff and supporters and has always wanted the very best for everyone connected with the Club.
“We are incredibly grateful for everything Neil has given us and, on a personal level, for the way he has conducted himself throughout his time here. He leaves the managerial role with our genuine thanks, affection and respect and will always be very welcome at Southport Football Club.
“Mark Duffy will take charge of the first team for Tuesday night’s fixture.
“A further update regarding the managerial position will be provided in due course.”