Stalybridge Celtic announce the sacking of manager James Kinsey

Stalybridge Celtic have parted company with first team manager James Kinsey and his management team, less than 24 hours after their 3-0 loss to Widnes.

This decision will no doubt raise eyebrows amongst some fans, with Celtic currently sitting fourth in the Northern Premier League West table- just four points behind leaders Widnes.

But the new ownership team at Bower Fold have decided a change was necessary, as they look to achieve their goal of promotion back to the NPL Premier Division.

Kinsey joined Celtic in May 2023 following the club’s relegation from the Premier Division, following a successful spell at Wythenshawe Town.

In a statement, club chairman Nigel Jones said: “This was a difficult decision, and I would like to thank James and his management team for their hard work since they were appointed in May 2023.

“Together, their commitment to the job in hand has never wavered and I know how much effort they have put in to try to make things work. Having come to Celtic at a difficult time following our takeover last year, they successfully managed to rebuild the squad at short notice and put together a competitive team during the first half of last season. However, we feel that a change is now needed.

“On behalf of the Club, I’d like to wish James and his team the very best for their future.”

The club are actively in the process of identifying and recruiting a new first team manager and an announcement is set to be made in due course.