Scholes leaves Oldham after a month

Former Manchester United and England midfielder Paul Scholes has resigned as manager of Oldham Athletic after only a month in charge.

Scholes departed the League Two club on Thursday having overseen seven games, winning only one.

He did not attend Oldham’s scheduled news conference ahead of Saturday’s home game with Tranmere Rovers due to what the club described as a “prior engagement”.

But Scholes has stepped down from his post, hinting at communication problems with the club’s board.

“It is with great regret that I have decided to leave the club with immediate effect,” he said in a statement given to the BBC.

“I hoped to at the very least, see out my initial term of 18 months as the manager of a club I’ve supported all my life.

“The fans, players, my friends and family all knew how proud and excited I was to take this role.

9 – Since Paul Scholes’ first match in charge on February 12th, Oldham Athletic have dropped the most points from winning positions in the top four English divisions (nine). Resigned. pic.twitter.com/2WEvPdqOE9

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 14, 2019

“In the short period since I took on the role it unfortunately became clear that I would not be able to operate as I intended and was led to believe prior to taking on the role.

“I wish the fans, the players and the staff – who have been tremendous – all the best for the rest of the season and will continue to watch and support the club as a fan.”

Oldham are 14th in League Two having lost three of their past five games under Scholes.

The club said in a statement: “Oldham Athletic Football Club can confirm that Paul Scholes has resigned from his position as first team manager with immediate effect.

“We would like to place on record our thanks to Paul for his efforts during his spell in charge of the club and would like to wish him well for the future. 

“An update on the permanent replacement will be made as soon as possible.”