Clapton CFC men’s first team assistant manager Stuart Purcell has announced he is leaving the club to move to Belfast.

Stu joined CCFC as part of Geoff Ocran’s coaching staff in 2018 before a ball had been kicked and he is also a director of the Old Spotted Dog Ground Trust.

He also made two friendly cameo appearances in 2019 – firstly away at Barkingside then at home to UE Sant Miquel.

Stu said…

It’s with a very heavy heart that I am announcing that I will be leaving my role at Clapton CFC.

I will always love the club but I have an amazing new job opportunity in Belfast and life has a funny way of changing sometimes.

I’m not sure what to say other than I have enjoyed every second of my time with Clapton from the very beginning of the creation of the club with Geoff.

Our first double winning season and our latest cup win last season stand out as some of the best moments.

Also seeing the young players develop from the beginning into regular starters and of course the return of football back to the Old Spotted Dog.

Clapton will also be in my heart and part of my life. I definitely want to set up a Belfast supporters’ club or an actual team over there in time..

I will be in the dugout on Saturday for the final time…. I have so been waiting to say this … WE GO AGAIN.

That final game is at home to Stonewall at the Stray Dog, Wadham Lodge, Walthamstow, on Saturday at midday. Full match preview here.

Thanks for all your hard work and all the best with your future endeavours, Stu.