REDDITCH United confirmed that manager Matt Clarke is to take an 'immediate break' from football due to personal reasons in a shock announcement on Thursday evening.
The club released a short statement, saying: "Matt Clarke will be taking an immediate break from football for personal reasons. At this stage, we anticipate this to be a short break.
"The current backroom staff will be leading the team, and it is expected that this will continue to be the case until Matt’s return."
It will come as a shock to Reds fans, who are enjoying a tremendous season in the Southern League Premier Central. Clarke has guided his side to the dizzy heights of third in the table, with an eight-point cushion in the play-off places.
They have won seven of their last 10 in the league and there is now genuine belief that the club could gain promotion to the National League.
Everyone involved with Redditch will be hoping for a swift return to the touchline for their manager Clarke.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here