Following days of intense discussions, we are delighted to announce the return of Martin Carruthers as our first team manager. Without doubt Basford’s most successful manager of the last decade (Gandiman) will return to Greenwich Avenue on a deal that will run until May 2025.

Carruthers will work with the existing management team of Danny Holmes and Andrew Danylyszyn, who will revert to previous roles of Assistant Manager and Head Coach. Andrew also remains Head of Football Educational Academy for Basford United FC.

Martin Carruthers left Basford United in March 2019 off the back of 5 promotions in 7 glorious years for the club, securing Step 3 football for United in April in 2018 off the back of a 100 point and 100 goal campaign in 2017-18, along with adding the Notts senior Cup trophy to Greenwich Avenue not once but twice in this period was something not achieved by any Basford United manager before!

Commenting Basford Owner Chris Munroe:

“I am delighted that a detailed agreement has been reach between Martin, Chair & Vice Chair Stan and Milo to return, and its straight down to work for all with Martin meeting all management and players this evening.”

“The decision to bringing Martin back is irrespective of the outcome of the 23/24 season, where we hope to retain our Step 3 status & regain the Notts Senior Cup trophy facing Forest U23s in the final during May. However, we now have a clear structure for 24/25 & can now start planning with regard to every eventuality.”

“Martins track record since 2019 has been impressive heading up two very good teams in Ilkeston securing for them Promotion back to Step 3 and for the last two season at Matlock, taking the Gladiators to the NPL Step 3 playoffs in 2022/23 season.”

Basford United Chairman Stan Mitchell added the following:

“Getting Martin on board wasn’t on the table a few days ago but when he became available, we knew he would be the perfect fit to work alongside Andy and Danny, Martin was always a fans favourite, and he feels he’s unfinished business at Basford. I worked alongside Martin, Chris and Milo in a very successful period for the club and look forward to renewing that close relationship going forward. The majority of the current players know Martin’s ethos and I have no doubt will buy into the upcoming plans from the newly formed management team and the drive to maintain our standing in Step 3!”

Manager Martin Carruthers penned the following:

“I am absolutely delighted to be re-joining Basford. I did not expect to be returning to football so quickly, but this was an opportunity that I could not turn down. Basford has always been in my heart and after all the past successes I feel I have unfinished business here.”

“Having met Chris, Stan and Milo it was clear that they wanted me back at the club and that we can put a plan and structure in place that will create a great community environment and bring positive vibes back to the club.”

“I know most of the players well and it’s clear we have real quality within the squad and need a big push in the last 6 games to help us retain our step 3 status. It won’t be easy, but with hard work, everyone pulling together, lots of positivity and energy I don’t see any reason why we can’t achieve this together."

"I’m excited and looking forward to meeting the players tonight!”

Welcome back Gandiman!