EXCLUSIVE By ADAM LAZZARI BRETT WHALEY has sensationally resigned as manager of March Town United. The 32-year-old, who has just completed his second full season with the Hares, said the club s financial difficulties were a major reason for his decision.

EXCLUSIVE

By ADAM LAZZARI

BRETT WHALEY has sensationally resigned as manager of March Town United.

The 32-year-old, who has just completed his second full season with the Hares, said the club's financial difficulties were a major reason for his decision.

Whaley, whose wife Claire had a son, Josh, in April, also cited family and work commitments for his departure.

March chairman Phil White said he has, "a couple of people in mind" for the manager's job, but was unprepared to give names.

Whaley said: "I have no problem with the board. They are doing a tremendous job. Their priority is to keep the club running and rightly so.

"But March, like many local clubs, has been hit by the current economic climate.

"I brought several players in from the Peterborough area and the club will struggle to pay their expenses.

"It will be difficult to see these guys leave and to witness something I've built up fall apart.

"The squad will have to be rebuilt and I feel it is time for a fresh face to come in and do that.

"It would be better suited to someone with a good local knowledge of the talent in the March area than me.

"As soon as one season ends managers now have to start preparing for the next season straight away. I don't think I will have the time to be on the telephone every night trying to sign players.

"But, hopefully some of the local lads will stay and there is some very good young talent at the club.

"There is a lot of potential at March and it will be a good project for someone to take on."

Whaley informed White of his decision on Monday.

The Hares finished bottom of the Ridgeons First Division on the season before Whaley took charge.

They came 15th in his first season and 13th last term, 13 points better off than the previous year.

White said: "We're all gutted. Brett's done a magnificent job. It was clear that he wasn't going to change his mind but while I'm chairman the door is always open for him.

"I'm not aware of any players planning to leave at the moment but next season is going to be very tough for us financially."

Whaley said he is looking to stay in management, but has had no firm offers.