MATT Clarke has stepped down as Redditch United manager as he faces a number of criminal charges.
Clarke, 50, of Turntable Avenue, Bromsgrove, has been charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis and is also accused of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
He appeared at Hereford Magistrates’ Court on February 14 alongside two co-defendants and is now due to appear before a judge for a plea and trial preparation hearing at Worcester Crown Court on June 21.
A Redditch United club statement reads: “We can today confirm that Matt Clarke has stood down as Men’s First Team Manager with immediate effect.
“Matt has recently been defending himself over a number of allegations that followed his arrest and bail on February 14th. Matt was then issued with a temporary suspension due to the nature of the charges.
“A hearing was scheduled at Worcester Crown Court yesterday, which followed previous appearances that had already been delayed on several occasions. The case was adjourned again with a new date set for June. Matt will continue to defend himself in what has become a protracted court case, well outside of the initially expected timescales.
“It has been concluded that a new manager is required to provide greater certainty for the club, its supporters and the current playing squad, as important plans continue ahead of the new season.
“We would like to thank our supporters for their patience in what has been a difficult and uncertain time for everyone.
“Redditch United welcome applications for the Men’s First Team Manager position and will act swiftly in making a new appointment. All applications should be directed to [email protected].”
It comes two and a half months after the club suddenly announced Clarke would be taking an immediate break from football for ‘personal reasons’.
Clarke was appointed Redditch United manager in September 2020 and has helped rebuild the club over the last four years.
