Armstrong Exits Darlington After Six Point Season Start

The Quakers have started the National League North season slowly and sit bottom of the table with six points to show from eight matches.

The club drew 0-0 at home to Boston United last night but that wasn’t enough to keep the former Middlesbrough star in his job.

Senior players Will Hatfield, Tom Platt and Jake Lawlor have agreed to take caretaker charge until a new boss is appointed permanently.

They say “following extensive discussions and reflection on the first team’s performances over the past eight months” a decision to part ways has been made.

“The board of Darlington Football Club regrets to announce that manager Alun Armstrong and assistant manager Darren Holloway have been given notice of termination of their employment contracts, and relieved of their duties,” a statement read.

David Johnston, Chair and CEO, said: “Having looked at results since the start of 2023, when we were top of National League North and in particular the very poor start to the current season, we were unanimous as a board that a change needed to be made.

“It is a decision that has not come easily. We are sure that all fans will join us in thanking Alun and Darren for their time at Darlington FC and wish them well for the future.”

“We will issue a further statement on first team staff in due course.”