Boss Brady exits Brackley Town

Brady leaves the club 19th in Vanarama National League North following Saturday’s 4-2 home defeat to North Ferriby United.

The 40-year-old enjoyed plenty of success at St James’ Park, steering Brackley to promotion to step two in 2012 as they won the Southern League Premier Division by eight points.

They were one game away from elevation to the Football Conference, with only a play-off final defeat to FC Halifax Town preventing them from edging even closer to the Football League.

Another of Brady and assistant manager Darren Collins’ sizeable achievements came in the FA Cup, with Brackley reaching the second round stage during the 2013-14 season.

But the past two seasons have been a transitional period, with last summer’s budget cuts seeing plenty of key players exit St James’ Park.

The likes of Tom Winters, Steve Diggin and Glenn Walker did return prior to the start of the current campaign, but the Saints have got off to a slow start.

And that meant Brady, who took over as caretaker manager in 2009 and was eventually made the permanent successor to Phil Lines, has opted to call time on his stay.

In a statement published on the club website, Brady said: “After much consideration and with heavy heart I have made the decision to resign as manager of Brackley Town Football Club.

“I can say I have given absolutely everything to the club during my six and a half years tenure.

“The profile of the club has certainly been raised, especially after our FA Cup run two seasons ago which generated much needed revenue and certainly helped to grow the infrastructure of the club.

“To win seven trophies and gain promotion to the Conference North, then reaching the play-off final after finishing third in our first season at this level was a real achievement.

“It was then extra special to go on to have the FA Cup run beating Gillingham live on national TV and reaching the second round proper for the first time at the club.

“I am immensely proud of what Darren Collins and I together with all my staff, players and all at the club have achieved.

“I feel that the time is right to move on and who knows, in time when the dust settles I may take on a fresh challenge whether that be focusing on my business or another opportunity in football management. That lies in the future.

“In my time here I have met many new people and made lots of friends. I will take with me some wonderful memories.

“I would like to thank everyone at Brackley Town FC for their support and take this opportunity to wish you all every success in the future.”