05 November, 2025

An update from Chairman Mark Luby | November 2025

Chairman’s Update

From Mark Luby

I wanted to share this update with supporters as part of our commitment to improving communication from the Board. It’s been a whirlwind few months since I took over as Chair in late summer, and in the midst of it all I’ll admit that I’ve probably overlooked just how important regular communication is to our supporters. I’ve heard the criticism and completely understand the frustration. It’s something I’m determined to put right.

We want a closer, more open relationship with our fanbase. You are the heartbeat of Altrincham Football Club, and I’ll make sure that regular updates like this become a normal part of how we connect with you going forward.

A Message of Thanks

Firstly, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Phil Parkinson and Neil Sorvel for the tremendous work they did over nearly eight and a half years at Altrincham FC.

Their record speaks for itself. They achieved some remarkable things during their tenure and played a huge part in taking the club to where it is today. They will always be Altrincham legends.

Making the recent decision regarding their departure was not taken lightly. It was one of the hardest choices we’ve ever had to make as a Board, but we felt it was the right time. I want to personally wish both Phil and Neil every success in the future.

I also have full confidence in Neil Gibson and Lee Jones to guide the team through this period as we move forward. The process of appointing a new permanent manager is well underway. We’ve had strong interest in the role and are taking the time to make the right long-term decision for the club.

Squad and Injury Update

I know many fans want to stay informed about player availability and injuries. While we have to be careful not to give opponents an advantage or weaken our position in transfer discussions, I can share the following updates confidently and with the management team's blessing:

We're delighted to confirm Elliot Osborne's red card from Saturday has been rescinded by the FA after we appealed the decision
Ethan Ross is progressing well in his ACL rehabilitation and we hope to see him back early in the new year.
Billy Sass-Davies has made excellent progress following surgery and is expected to be running again this month, with a view to making his Alty debut in January.
Sam Barnes and Lewis Banks are both short-term injuries and should be available for selection before the end of November.
Unfortunately, Sam Reed’s injury is worse than initially thought and he’s unlikely to return before the new year.
The good news is that Billy Waters’ injury isn’t as severe as first feared, and we’re hopeful he’ll be back in early December.

Together as One

The club is going through a difficult period, and it’s vital that we all stick together, supporters, the Board, the players and the management team.

If we stay united, manage expectations and keep working hard, we’ll come through this stronger and ready to build again towards our shared ambitions.

We held a very positive AGM last Friday, with a strong turnout of shareholders and a constructive Q&A session to end the evening. In many ways it felt like a great dry run for a wider supporters’ forum. I’ve heard a few people say they don’t think the Board Q&A will happen this year, but let’s get a new permanent manager appointed and I might just surprise you!

So never mind the bonfires, get yourselves down to Moss Lane this evening and get behind the team. The players and staff are working incredibly hard to put things right, and if there was ever a time we needed you all, it’s now.