By Monday, Matlock owner David Hilton explained that Clayton had been released to pursue an opportunity with another club higher up the English football pyramid.
Hilton said the Gladiators had initially “decided to not allow those discussions” to take place until the end of the season, fearing it would “unsettle” the Derbyshire club, only to then release the manager to pursue the chance.
And when Clayton turned down the opportunity of a new start elsewhere, the 36-year-old is said to have “requested he be reinstated” so he could “finish what he had started”.
“While the earlier decision was taken with the club’s long-term welfare in mind, further reflection and continued dialogue highlighted the importance of stability, continuity, and a shared direction,” Hilton said in a statement on the club website., external
Clayton, who started his professional career on the books at Manchester City, was still playing when he was elevated from midfielder to interim manager at Matlock last season.
Despite Matlock going on to be relegated last term, Clayton was given the job on a permanent basis and had the Gladiators within seven points of league leaders Redcar Athletic by the end of what can only be called his ‘first spell’ in charge.
