CLUB STATEMENT: Matlock Town management team

Matlock Town FC can confirm that a decision has been taken to reinstate Adam Clayton as the club’s first team manager.

Whilst this may well come as a surprise to many given our previous announcement on Saturday, there are many reasons why it has now been decided to retain Adam in his role, as well as to appoint Ryan Cresswell as assistant manager.

Gladiators owner David Hilton explains: “We received an approach for Adam from a bigger club higher in the pyramid. We notified Adam of this but due to the investment and the potential to unsettle us we decided to not allow those discussions to take place until our season was complete.

“We later felt that this was unfair on Adam and that the situation had the potential to impact us regardless.

“After the Ossett game, the club decided to release Adam from his contract in order to allow him to move on. We felt that a fresh approach was required due to the situation having the potential to distract people at a vital time in our season.

“After his release and his discussions with the other club and his family, Adam declined the offer of the new position and requested that he be reinstated at Matlock and allowed to finish what he had started with us and with the group of players he had recruited.

“The club decided that after last year’s revolving door of players, and with only four months left of the current season that sees us in a relatively strong league position, Adam was absolutely the best man to help us achieve our ambition. His relationship and bond with myself, our board of directors, staff and his players is a strong one and is seen to be virtually irreplaceable at this stage of the season.

“As the opportunity arose, the club has decided to bring back former manager Ryan Cresswell, a trusted ally to Adam, as the assistant manager and also as our defensive coach. Ryan initially brought Adam to the club and has a wealth of experience managing at the level with a much lower budget. He is also a vastly experienced former EFL defender with excellent contacts and is known to and liked by many of our existing players, staff, board and I.

“While the earlier decision was taken with the club’s long‑term welfare in mind, further reflection and continued dialogue highlighted the importance of stability, continuity, and a shared direction.

“As a club, we all deeply value the passion and commitment of our supporters and remain steadfast in our ambition to realise our vision with Adam and Ryan leading the team.

“I now encourage our terrific fanbase to get behind the management and the team as we continue our push for a promotion place.”