Radcliffe FC’s chairman has acknowledged there was a difference of opinion with former boss Jon Macken in paying tribute to his work at the Neuven Stadium.

The former Manchester City striker’s successful two-and-a-half year stint at the club ended suddenly on Friday.

Macken said that his views were “no longer aligned” with those of the club, despite Boro challenging for the play-offs in the BetVictor Premier Division after promotion last season.

Chairman Paul Hilton has issued an open letter to fans assuring them that his vision of a bright future at the club remains very much on track.

“Whilst I am sure you will be aware that events of the last 24 hours have been difficult for many around the club, we part company with Jon and his team as friends,” Hilton said on Saturday.

“The quality of the job done at Radcliffe FC by our outgoing management team cannot be understated and the successes and development we have all enjoyed in recent times are a testament to that. 

 “Last season was history-making for this club and Jon Macken, Frank Sinclair, Steve Atkinson and Josh Hull will forever be a bright and significant part of Radcliffe FC history. 

“I thank them all on behalf of everyone at the Radcliffe FC for that genuine impact on our club and town.  This group of people have been outstanding to work with and it has been personal pleasure of mine to do so.

 “Football is well known by one of its many other names the 'game of opinions' and sometimes those opinions don’t match up however right both party may be. That’s ok, that’s football.”

“As many of you know from speaking to me around the ground or reading any interviews, from my very first day on the job I have been positive, challenging and aggressive in our desire to succeed and take this club to new levels. 

“Let me be very clear, that does not change now.  This club is a very different beast to its previous form. 

“We will not sit back and bemoan our situation, we not look backwards and admire our recent achievements. 

“We will get right on it and work even harder to push this club forward and build on the great work of Jon and his team to do all staff past and present, our supporters and our town proud.  That is who we are now.”

Karl Marginson oversaw the first game of the new era, as Boro went down 2-0 at home to Gainsborough Trinity.

Now ninth in the table, they next host Ashton United on Tuesday night.