McMahon prepares for emotional send-off

Keith McMahon has called his decision to stand down as Thamesmead Town's manager after eleven years one of the toughest of his life.

An emotional McMahon, pictured, announced his resignation on Twitter late on Tuesday night, citing ongoing issues with the Ryman North club's landlords, the Thamesmead Trust, for his departure.

His surprise exit was confirmed on Wednesday morning by officials at Bayliss Avenue who paid tribute to McMahon as they launched the hunt to recruit his successor.

McMahon, who also stood down from his role as a club director, has agreed to take charge for the last time on Saturday when the club host Wroxham at Sporting Club Thamesmead.

In a statement, the Mead said: "Things have been become increasingly difficult for Keith away from the playing side of things. After discussions with club director Paul Bowden-Brown we are delighted to confirm that Keith has agreed to take charge of the first team one more time this Saturday for what will now certainly be a very emotional occasion."

McMahon, who won the Kent League and Kent Senior Cup in only his second season in charge to win promotion to the Ryman League, said: "I want to thank everyone at Thamesmead Town FC for 11 wonderful years where I have had some of the best times of my life.

"Its been a really, really hard decision to make. I’ve just had enough with so much of the off-field stuff away from the club and it's the toughest decision that I’ve ever taken.

"It will let me spend more time with my family and I’ve had some great times at the club. There have been the lows too of course, but over all its been a joy."

He added: "I’ve got people around me now who are more than just friends – I consider them to be part of my extended family, and but now really is the time to move on!"

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