AFC FYLDE will have a change in the backroom staff for the coming season after goalkeeping coach Craig Dootson revealed he is struggling to commit his time to the club.

The popular 36 year-old has been offered a promotion at work which will involve more travelling, and although he is keen to assist The Coasters when possible, the club are looking at alternative options.

Manager Dave Challinor said: “I had a good chat to Doots as he’s recently started a new job. Due to the impact he’s had there in the first few weeks he’s been offered a promotion which means more money for him. Unfortunately with that comes more commitment and travelling all over the country. He felt it was unfair on Ben (Hinchcliffe) and us to not be able to commit fully and be available at every session.”

Dootson has had a successful career in non-league football with the likes of Bamber Bridge, Stalybridge Celtic, Hyde United and Kendal Town as well as playing for current Football League sides Bury and Fleetwood Town along the way.

Challinor added: “It’s disappointing but he has to do what’s best for him and his family. His personal circumstances mean he has his kids at the weekend and I know how important they are to him. I’m sure he’ll still be seen around the place but certainly not at every game. In the meantime, we’ll look at other options to bring a replacement in. We’ve a couple of options and Doots himself has offered some alternatives that may be available.

“We’ve thanked him for all he’s brought to the club, not only in working with Ben but also as an extra set of eyes from a coaching perspective.”