Club rehires ex-manager after drug charges dropped

Matt Clarke left Redditch United in February

Redditch United has announced the return of a former manager after drugs charges against him were dropped.

Matt Clarke was reinstated as first team manager on Friday, five months after the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) withdrew charges against the 50-year-old.

Tim Flowers resigned as manager on Thursday after being approached by another club, said a statement on Redditch United's website.

Mr Clarke, from Bromsgrove, said he had "unfinished business" at the club and he was looking forward to pushing it to "greater heights".

When charges were brought in February, Redditch United announced Mr Clarke had taken an "immediate break" from his role due to "personal reasons".

He pleaded not guilty to charges of supplying cocaine and cannabis and possessing an offensive weapon, and a hearing to dismiss the charges was held in June.

The CPS told Worcester Crown Court that after a review it would not be proceeding with the case.

Speaking about his return on Facebook, Mr Clarke wrote: "What a crazy 24 hours. Back in the dugout doing what I do best.

"To say it’s been a tough time away is the understatement of the year.

"Incredible day, great scenes at the end with the last minute winner. Amazing being back up the reds."

'Excited to see him return'

Redditch United chairman David Faulkner said it was crucial to act quickly after Mr Flowers stepped down.

He said: "We knew we needed to provide clarity for both our players and supporters.

"Matt Clarke is someone who knows the club well and has a proven track record of success. We’re excited to see him return and lead the team forward.”

In a statement from the club, Mr Clarke added: "This club means a lot to me, and I feel like there’s unfinished business here.

"I’m looking forward to working with the players and staff to build on what we’ve achieved in the past and push this club to even greater heights.”