Tonight, we confirm that John Rankin has resigned from his position as First Team Manager. This is a deeply sad moment for everyone at the club, and on behalf of our entire organisation, I want to express my sincere gratitude for everything John has given during his time here.
Few managers in British football will ever have to endure the pressures, challenges and seemingly constant uncertainty that John has faced while leading his team. Throughout it all, he carried himself with integrity, courage and an unwavering commitment to the players, staff and our supporters. Much of what he has dealt with will never be visible to the public, but those of us who worked alongside him know the strength of character and professionalism he brought every single day.
Despite the difficulties behind the scenes, John delivered stability, standards and success to our football department. He developed young players, built a culture of honesty, respect, hard work and fought tirelessly for this club and for his people. His contribution has been nothing short of immense, and the foundations he put in place will benefit this club long into the future.
While we are really saddened by his departure, we fully understand and completely respect his reasons. John has always acted in the best interests of the club, often putting the Club before himself and he now leaves with our total appreciation and admiration.
On a personal level, I want to thank him for his leadership, his honesty and the pride he brought to the role that he has grown into and been successful in. He has been a credit to himself and to this club.
We wish John & his family every success and happiness in whatever comes next for them – they deserve it.
He will always be welcome here, and he will forever remain a valued part of our club’s story.
Gerry Strain
Director of Football
