A new 'interim' manager for Lowestoft as Eagle departs

Lowestoft Town were, as you will probably be aware, unable to field a team on Saturday due to a variety of player absences- fourteen by their count- but last night the club released a statement via social media that confirmed a number of changes and hope for the future.

It began by confirming a change of manager, Cion Wren stepping up to take interim charge- and the departure of Rob Eagle, who steered the side to Pitching In Isthmian North safety last season as was rewarded with a permanent appointment in the summer. 

Rob is something of a Trawler Boys legend, making more than two hundred and fifty appearances over three spells, including twenty six last season. His playing career also includes spells at Norwich City, Inverness Caledonian Thistle, Grimsby Town, AFC Sudbury and Leiston.

'The club has been working for some time on the future of the coaching and playing staff, and we are now in a position to confirm a number of key changes in the First Team structure. I'm delighted to confirm that Cion Wren has agreed to become Interim First Team Manager with immediate effect. Cion has been deeply involved with the club over many yyears and has most recently established the highly successful Scholarship Programme. He has already begun the process of leading the team for the season ahead, and there will be more exciting news to follow this week regarding player additions. This change clearly means that Rob Eagle has now left his role as First Team Player / Manager. Everyone at the club has huge respect for Eags and for his dedication over so many years, however he has agreed that a new direction for the club is needed. The fantastic end to last season, with Rob's leadership ensuring our league status will be remembered by everyone for many years to come. The club would also like to thank Dan Goffin and Martin Newson for their roles in assisting Rob this season, as they too have moved on. '

The statement also brought some player news:

'We have reached a mutual agreement with Dylan Ruffles to cancel his contract, and he will leave the club with immediate effect. Dylan has served the club as captain in the last two seasons, however the new Management team have decided that a fresh start is best for the club and for Dylan. I'd like to thank Dylan for his efforts for the Trawlerboys both on and off the pitch and wish him well for this future career. Ben Haddoch has requested the termination of his contract in order to find a new club closer to his place of work, which we have agreed to, and he leaves with our best wishes. Our thanks also go to Kyle Baker for this hard work for the club since the start of the season, following his departure at the end of last week.'

Finally, the statement confirmed a Fans Forum on Friday:

'Over the coming days we will have a number of exciting announcements which are currently in negotiation, and we will have a positive message to share on the direction of the club at the Fans' Forum on Friday 13th, 7.30pm. Please come along to share your views, and contribute to the future of Lowestoft Town FC.'

The Trawler Boys are scheduled to be back in action on Saturday, when Cambridge City are the visitors. 

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