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Clanfield & Hyde United managers move on

Clanfield, Hyde United · Step 6

Published by Jamie Tarrant ·

Clanfield FC and Hyde United have both announced managerial departures, with Lee Blakely leaving the Hampshire club after seven years and Michael Clegg parting company with the Tigers by mutual consent.

Clanfield confirmed that Blakely's final game in charge was their victory over Dorking Wanderers, bringing an end to an association that began in 2019 when he joined the coaching staff.

Blakely took over first-team duties the following summer and guided the club to a historic promotion to Step 6 in 2023, the first in Clanfield's history. His time in charge also saw the club record Wessex League finishes of 9th, 12th and 16th.

The club praised his commitment to developing young players, with several Under-16 and Under-18 players progressing into the senior side.

Supporters were quick to recognise his contribution. Tom Grice wrote: "Credit where credit is due, he has taken the club forward and should be proud of that."

DugOut Diaries expressed disappointment at his departure, describing Blakely as a "great guy", while James Wilson added: "All the best Lee, great guy who did a great job."

Meanwhile, Hyde United have confirmed the departure of Michael Clegg by mutual consent, with the club sitting 14th in the Northern Premier League Premier Division.

Clegg took charge in January and helped Hyde secure their place in the division last season, guiding the Tigers to a 15th-place finish. The decision has raised eyebrows among some non-league followers, with Matt Talks Non-League expressing surprise at the timing.

"Slightly surprised, not an awful start to the season, but clearly expectations internally were to be higher than 14th!"

Both clubs now face the task of moving forward following their respective managerial departures.

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