Joint Statement: Warren Burton steps down as First Team manager

Fleet Town Football Club can confirm that First Team Manager Warren Burton and Assistant Manager Simon Payne have made the decision to step down from their roles.

On behalf of everyone at the club, we would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Warren and Simon for their outstanding contribution during their time with us. Their commitment has been unquestionable, particularly given the significant travel they have undertaken throughout their tenure.

When Warren took over after Christmas, the club found itself in mid-table with a squad lacking confidence. He immediately steadied the ship, implemented clear direction and standards, and, alongside Simon, strengthened the squad with a number of excellent additions.

What followed was a remarkable run, driving the team up the table and culminating in an unforgettable play-off campaign. The semi-final victory away at Tooting & Mitcham United was a standout moment, earning the club a place in last week’s play-off final in front of a fantastic home crowd. While we were ultimately unable to get over the line, reaching that stage was a tremendous achievement and one that reflects the hard work, leadership and footballing acumen Warren and Simon brought to the club.

Both Warren and Simon have been a pleasure to work with and great to have around the club. They leave with our full respect and gratitude.

We wish them both every success for the future and we will of course keep the fans updated with any news concerning Warren’s replacement.

Warren had this to say about his decision

“Firstly I would like to thank Caroline, Darren, Dan and the committee for inviting me back to be manager at such a great club. When I received the call to come back, Simon and I were absolutely delighted!

We have had a fantastic season and I hope everyone involved is proud of what has been achieved. To get to the Play Off Final was an amazing achievement. May I also say a massive thank you to the players and management team, who all worked incredibly hard, because without them we would not have been so successful this season.

My decision to resign is purely a personal one, due to my circumstances and the travel involved, it’s a 90-mile round trip and unfortunately not something that is sustainable for me. It has been a really tough decision to make.

I feel the club is in a great place, with a fantastic team spirit, togetherness, attitude, commitment and mentality installed, and many, many laughs along the way with the characters we have!

Thank you once again everyone, and all the best for the future.
Warren”