CHAIRMAN Bernard Manning jnr on Thursday pledged a new era at Radcliffe Boro writes Marc Higginson

The change in management structure sees Kevin Glendon remain as first-team coach, but goalkeeping coach Andy Johnston is to take on more responsibilities and becomes the manager of the footballing and administrative side of the club.

"Managing a football club is not all about just picking the team," explained Manning.

"There are other aspects such as training two or three times a week, watching other teams, scouting players, PR work such as dealing with the press, programme articles, liasing with the clubs official website, ringing other managers, watching reserve and youth team games and organising trial games. Supporters may not realise what goes into the role.

"Therefore, we have appointed Andy Johnston as the manager of the footballing and administrative side of the club to oversee all aspects of the job.

"He is very capable and loyal and we feel he is the best man to help make this new structure work."

The chairman was also at pains to stress that Glendon isnt leaving the club.

He said: "The duties of Kevin will change and he will have the responsibility of dealing and coaching with the first team only.

"Obviously, with his new business structure this will free up a lot of time for him."

The chairman also admitted he was excited about a new era at the club and felt it will be beneficial for all parties.

"We feel the new management structure is the way to go forward and provide us with the stability we need," enthused Manning.

"It fits into everyone's personal commitment at the moment. It also defines their roles at the club and also ensures we are prepared for every eventuality.

"In football, there are always surprises and changes. So, for example, if Andy cannot commit fully to the role in the future, we will look at bringing a manager in who will have those credentials for that job, and not change everybody behind the scenes."

And, Johnston can't wait to get stuck into his new role, and try and help save Boro from relegation.

The 38-year-old said: "I have always said I will do anything if it helps the club.

"Dealing with certain aspects of the management side are no problem to me and I am looking forward to my new role.

"We have a fabulous expertise in the other areas such as coaching and the medical side and I think it will work perfectly. We work very well as a team anyway and have the same goals, and I think everyone can see that.

"The new structure will share the workload and define the roles we feel are needed to run the clubs playing side".

"We are all aware of what decisions and responsibility lie with each individual role and are all very comfortable with that. We now need to pull together to get the results we require to stay up."

Glendon concluded:"This is the best way forward for all concerned and I am sure Andy will prove to be a success with added responsibility on his shoulders."