RADCLIFFE Borough manager Andy Johnston has resigned on the eve of the new season.

Johnston has stepped down to concentrate on his other football commitments as goalkeeping coach with the England Ladies squad and the Liverpool FC academy.

Coach Kevin Glendon will retain matchday responsibilities, but the club will be looking for someone to fill Johnston's shoes - possibly as a director of football.

"I am disappointed to be leaving, but I just felt that I couldn't commit the time needed to fulfill the role properly this season," said Johnston.

"I will probably have to miss six weeks during the season with the England Ladies squad, and I also have my responsibilities with the Liverpool academy to think about.

"I have had some good times at Boro - both as a player and on the coaching staff - but I think this decision is the best one for both myself and the football club."

Johnston was offered the chance to stay on as just a goalkeeping coach but turned down the offer.

"It came as a complete shock to us all and it seems he has been thinking about it since the season ended," said Boro chairman Bernard Manning Jnr.

"Andy has said he could not commit the time and we have to respect his decision, although we have said to him that we will always keep the door open for him.

"Andy will be sorely missed. His organisation, administration and communication skills were ideal for the role we had wanted and created.

"He did an excellent job in pulling it all together and he will be a hard act to follow."

The club will be advertising for someone to fill Johnston's role, which included administartion, PR, dealing with the players' finances, scouting, helping with coaching and having an input on match-day alongside the other first-team coaches. In addition, a goalkeeping coach may also be brought into the club.

It is understood that a couple of people have been approached about the roles, and the club will make an announcement in the near future.