Birmingham out at Bognor

Bognor Regis Town have announced the departure of joint manager Michael Birmingham, with Jamie Howell taking over as sole boss.

Michael became co-manager at the Rocks just before Christmas last year, but despite some improved performances he and Jamie were unable to steer the club to Premier Division safety. He was previously in charge at Horndean for many years. 

He took over at the Deans in the summer of 2016, and his first home game brought in a crowd of fifty four- which contrasts with the one thousand, three hundred and fifty nine who packed the Stanley Chase Stadium as his Deans won the Wessex League title at the end of the 22-23 season, a campaign which also saw them win the Portsmouth Senior Cup at Fratton Park. The 23-24 season saw a comfortable transition to Step Four and our South East Division, and last season he guided them to another steady start as they moved over to the South Central Division, before heading Bognor way. He was very much welcomed at the Rocks, as he was a Nyewood Lane legend as a player.

He told the local paper:

“I was hoping that becoming manager of Bognor would relight the fire in my stomach because if I am honest I have fallen out of love with the game. It's either football changes for Michael Birmingham, or Michael Birmingham changes for football. I am 50 now and I don't think I can change. I actually emailed the club telling them of my decision on the Tuesday after we beat AFC Portchester 5-4 in the opening game of the season.

I've been thinking about it for a while. I said last year I thought I'd gone flat and stale at Horndean and with football. The game has changed so much.

Even when we lost at Hackney Wick it didn't hurt as much as it should have. And you then think, 'what is the point?'. Whether it's the new generation of players -- and I am not saying all players are like it -- I don't know. I am old school. I like to be honest. If people don't like that then I really don't care.

"I have always said that the day I lose the drive and the passion and will to win, is the day Michael Birmingham has died and as a football man Michael Birmingham has officially died. It's RIP Birmy. Shame it couldn't have carried on but there is nothing there.

I wish nothing but the best for Bognor Regis Town football club... for Jamie Howell, for Jack Pearce, for Simon Cook, for everyone really... and especially the fans they have been absolutely brilliant. I still say it's the best club along the south coast. Yes it's going through a little bit of a turbulent time at the moment, but it is still the best club.”

A club statement explained:

‘Michael will remain in post until the end of the month to support a smooth handover. Jamie Howell will continue as first team manager and will lead the team as the season unfolds.’

More here.