Newark and Sherwood FC manager Nathan Arnold leaves the club for Cleethorpes Town FC

The manager of Newark and Sherwood United has quit the football club for Cleethorpes.

Nathan Arnold will be making a step up in his career and departs with the Station Road club's best wishes.

Arnold, who only joined the Highwaymen from Newark Town in the closed season, is stepping in the footballing pyramid from five to four with his move to Cleethorpes Town FC.

Newark and Sherwood said that although Arnold, a former pro with Lincoln City and Grimsby Town, would be missed, they were delighted to have helped him progress as a manager and as an individual.

Chairman Steff Wright said: “Nathan’s departure has certainly come earlier than expected, but it wasn’t a huge surprise that a club would come in for him after going 13 games unbeaten and playing an impressive style of football.

"With Nathan’s links to Grimsby, this move is a good progression for him, and we wish him well.”

Current player/coach, Jonathan D’Laryea, will be taking on the role of manager and will look to continue the team’s success in his new player/manager role.

JD has played at a high level, coming through the academy and playing for the first team at Manchester City. His experience and guidance have already been vital to the Highwaymen's success so far.

The club said he will continue to use his experience in developing its talented group of players as he transitions into his new role.

Dennis Rhule will continue in his role as assistant manager, as will the rest of the management team and coaches.

Dennis will support JD through the transition and continue to be a positive and influential voice throughout the club.

Wright said he looked forward to formally introducing JD as manager tomorrow (Thursday) at the Supporters’ Evening at Collingham FC.

JD will then take charge of his first game on Saturday as the club take on Blackstones FC in the second-round proper of the FA Vase.

Arnold said: “Personally, it has been a very difficult decision for me to leave this early into the process at Newark but it’s an opportunity that is too good for me to turn down at this stage of my career. On the pitch I feel the team is ahead of schedule and I take comfort in knowing that the staff and players will continue to build success and are in good hands under the chairman’s stewardship.

"The football club is in a strong position, and I am very proud of what has been achieved in a short space of time.

"The players have been a joy to work with. As manager, that’s all I could ask for.

"I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Newark and Sherwood United for their level of support throughout this campaign.

"Thank you to the chairman for trusting me with this job. It has been a fantastic experience helping build the football club from the ground up both on and off the pitch.

"I had and still have an excellent relationship with the chairman and with everyone at the club. I would like to wish Newark and Sherwood United every success in the future."