BRAD QUINTON has departed Enfield Town to take charge of his former club Braintree Town – a decision he says was the “toughest” of his career.
Quinton, who made over 500 appearances for Braintree as a player, originally joined Enfield in December 2013 before late becoming assistant to George Borg.
After Borg’s departure, Quinton took over as Enfield’s manager in August 2014 and had them competing in and around the play-off positions over the past three campaigns.
Last season Town made it into the play-offs after finishing fourth in the Ryman Premier but they lost out to Dulwich Hamlet in the semi-finals.
Quinton has now made the tough decision to leave the club after managerless Braintree offered him the chance to return to his former side.
The Iron parted company with boss Hakan Hayrettin earlier this month following their relegation from the National League and the Essex club are hoping that Quinton’s return will coincide with an upturn in fortunes.
Quinton told Enfield’s website: “This has been the toughest decision of my football career. Over the last few days I have had lengthy discussions with my family and we eventually came to the conclusion that a return to my former club at this time was an opportunity that I needed to take.
“I would like to go on record to thank all supporters, including volunteers and directors, from the bottom of my heart for creating something special together.
“Enfield Town is a fantastic club, which I am sure will go from strength to strength. I have to admit I shed a tear after the Dulwich game, as I was totally committed to promotion this time around. I will miss everyone, particularly those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, and hope our paths will cross in the future.”
Braintree chairman Lee Harding added: “We’ve had some excellent applicants and I must thank all for their interest in our club. But Brad is someone that has been instrumental in building our club from the foot of the Ryman League to the top tier of Non-League football from 2002 to 2013.
“The majority of last season’s relegated side have been released and another re-building process will begin afresh. Fortunately Brad has been an integral part of many successful Braintree sides and knows exactly what is needed to turn our fortunes around after two disruptive campaigns.”
