Certainly not one of the pre-season favourites for the boot, but manager Steve Waywell has left Hyde United by mutual agreement.

A statement from the club said: “On behalf of the club I would like to thank Steve for all his hard work in bringing back-to-back championship successes as well as other silverware in his time with us.

“Steve is the first to admit things didn't go to plan in the second half of last season and unfortunately we have not regained our form in the first nine games this season and therefore a change was in the best interests of both parties. We would like to wish Steve every success for the future.”

Striker Neil Tolson and ex-Halifax Town boss Chris Brass will take temporary charge of affairs with immediate effect.

Toldon has told the club's website: "It is a great opportunity for Brassy and myself to take over the reins at Hyde. We have spoken to Steve today and he has wished us all the best. Steve did a tremendous job for the Tigers, but more latterly we appear to have lost our way. He will still be an hard act to follow, but we will do our very best.

"It is our intention to bring a smile back to both the players and the fans with immediate effect. We have met the players this evening and told them what we expect starting on Saturday. Its a good fixture to start with as Kings Lynn are yet to lose in the League.

"It's a long way to go to return with nothing, so please get behind the lads and we will do our utmost to get something from the game. If you can't make the trip we will be around on Monday at the Reserve game and of course Vauxhall return to Ewen Fields next Saturday.

Please give us a little time to get things sorted. Everybody will be given a chance, but rest assured anything less than 110% from the players will not be tolerated."
 

*Hyde’s former Bury striker James Dean has been released to league rivals Harrogate Town. The Yorkshire club put in seven days notice last week and confirmed he has signed for them forthwith.

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