Steve Macauley has left Fleetwood Town to return to a job within the NHS. Macauley had served the club as a player before returning as a member of the coaching staff and physio in 2005.
By David MitchellSteve Macauley has left Fleetwood Town to return to a job within the NHS. Macauley had served the club as a player before returning as a member of the coaching staff and physio in 2005.
He was appointed caretaker-manager after the departure of Tony Greenwood in 2008 and has been first-team coach under Micky Mellon before doing more work recently as a physio.
During Steve's time at Highbury there have been many changes and a lot of developments:
'I feel quite emotional because it's been a hell of a journey. There have been huge changes supervised by a Chairman who backs the club and who has invested heavily in the stadium and the team. There has been some immeasurable success and we need to take the history forward and keep the momentum going. This is not a stand-still club. The people involved won't accept anything but success.'
'Getting into the Football League has been the aim from a few years back. At first it was a bit tongue-in-cheek and if anyone had asked me when we were playing inside a dirt-track watched by 60 people it would have been laughable! We were quietly confident in the Conference that it would happen but now it has become a reality.'
'I am moving with a heavy heart because Fleetwood Town has been a big part of my life but I didn't leave my job with the NHS to do the same job at the club. I wanted to continue coaching because I know that I can add something but there was deemed to be no coaching role available. That's football and we move on. I'd like to thank the supporters and the people around the club and wish them all the best for the future.'
Macauley's coaching career may not yet be over as he wants to make the most of the time and commitment already put in to gaining his UEFA 'A' Licence:
'I've got one assessment left after a two-year period of study. It's been a hard graft at times but hopefully I'll be there in the next two weeks and have something in the locker for the future.'
Chairman Andy Pilley paid tribute to Steve:
‘Steve has been a fine servant to the club for many, many years and in every footballing role conceivable. Steve played an integral role ensuring our success and ultimate promotion to the Football League. I wish Steve every success in the future and would like him to know he is always welcome at Highbury.
