It has today been announced that Terry McPhillips is to step down from his position at Blackpool FC through a club statement. The decision comes in the midst of new contract talks with owner Simon Sadler. McPhillips has instead, after time to 'reflect', decided to resign with the club in a stable position.
McPhillips said in a statement,
“While discussing the option of a new contract, I’ve had plenty of time to reflect on things and feel that the time is now right for me to step aside.
“I never really had any intention of becoming a manager, yet I stepped up in difficult circumstances last season because the club needed some stability.
“That stability has now been achieved and an exciting future awaits under Simon’s ownership.
“It’s been an honour to manage Blackpool in the short-term, and I will forever cherish the fact that I was in charge of the team when all the fans returned for the homecoming match against Southend United.
“I would like to thank the players and coaching staff for all their efforts and wish everybody connected with the club the very best of luck for the future.”
In the club statement Michael Bolingbroke and Simon Sadler also shared their views,
“Terry has been very gracious in his discussions with the board and we wish him well in his future endeavours. He did a very good job in guiding the club to a top-half finish last season after quickly going from assistant to manager. We’re all appreciative of his efforts.” (Sadler)
“I would like to echo Simon’s sentiments and thank Terry for all his help and assistance during what has been a transitional period on-and-off the pitch. He has always wanted the best for the club and can be very proud of the job he has done here.” (Bolingbroke)
The decision is one that will come as a surprise to the majority of Blackpool fans with the club on an upward trajectory and an opportunity to build on last season's top 10 finish.
After stepping up following the shock resignation of Gary Bowyer last season McPhillips, despite losing his first match at home to Portsmouth, went on to oversee 56 matches for the club. He won 21 of those matches and averaged 1.4 points per game in a successful spell at the club where he helped stabilise and build a strong base.
Things will never be easy at Blackpool as tonight's news provides another twist in what has been a tumultuous few years.