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DEPARTURE: Sol Campbell

SOL CAMPBELL has bid farewell to his players during today’s (Aug 15) training session and leaves the cash-stricken League Two club after a promising start to the season.

The former Arsenal and England legend had been one of a handful of black managers hired in top flight league football.

The 44-year-old took over the ranks in November 2018 when the club was at the bottom of league two. However, under his leadership, he was able to keep the club safe from relegation, with only two defeats during their final 10 games ensuring what could only be said to have been a miraculous turnaround.

While Macclesfield have continued to progress well on the pitch during this current season, under Campbell’s management, there was a real internal battle against club owners - Mr Amar and Bashar Alkhadi, who had repeatedly failed to pay Campbell’s wages on time as the club were shrouded in an increasing financial crisis.

Campbell’s departure therefore comes as no surprise and it is reported that his departure is through mutual consent.

In a statement to representatives of the club, he said: “Macclesfield Town gave me a great beginning in the managerial side of the game and a fantastic learning curve which I am truly grateful for. I would like to thank all the players and staff for their support during my time at the Moss Rose and also all the loyal fans, whose belief at the end of last season ultimately played a tangible role in our success.”

Campbell’s departure means that there are now only five BAME managers in England's top four divisions. They are Nuno Espirito Santo (Wolves), Sabri Lamouchi (Nottingham Forest), Darren Moore (Doncaster), Keith Curle (Northampton) and Dino Maamria (Stevenage).

Campbell, who during his time as a player, won Premier League titles at Arsenal FC, had been clearly outspoken on the poor representation of BAME managers in top flight football.

Following his appointment, Campbell is said to have had at least a rejection of 15 submitted applications before eventually receiving the offer to take over Macclesfield.