Brian Atkinson steps down as Newton Aycliffe manager after relegation | OneFootball

Former Sunderland midfielder Brian Atkinson has left his role as Newton Aycliffe manager, stepping down weeks after relegation to the Ebac Northern League.

The club said in a statement that they thanked Atkinson for his work, highlighted the Northern League title and respected his decision to move on.

After assistant spells at Darlington, Spennymoor Town and Aycliffe, he took charge in 2021 and steered the side to fourth in the Northern League top flight.

The 2022/23 campaign delivered the title and a historic promotion to the Northern Premier League, the highest level Aycliffe had reached.

Atkinson’s team adapted well, finishing sixth and then seventh, just outside the play-off places.

Key departures undermined the current season, and nine wins in 42 league games saw Aycliffe relegated with Bishop Auckland and Blyth Town. A new manager will now lead preparations for life back in the Northern League.

Source: Sunderland Echo