Former Cobblers Manager Jon Brady States Resignation Was His Decision

Jon Brady, who previously spent six years with non-league Brackley Town before taking the helm at Northampton Town, stated that his departure as manager of Northampton Town was a personal decision. He also expressed his hope that he had contributed “value” to the club throughout his tenure. The League One club, known as the Cobblers, had announced the 49-year-old’s exit on December 5, after he had been in charge for three and a half years. This announcement came with the club positioned in the relegation zone, following a streak of six winless matches. Ian Sampson, Brady’s assistant, was appointed as caretaker manager. Sampson commented that the Australian’s departure, which occurred just days before his 200th match, had left everyone “shocked.” According to Northampton chairman Kelvin Thomas, Sampson continues in his interim role and is being considered for the permanent position. In a statement shared on his X account, Brady affirmed, “Ultimately it was my decision to resign from my position as manager.” He further added, “For almost four years, my excellent staff and I have given everything to deliver success to our supporters.” Brady extended his gratitude to Thomas, chief executive James Whiting, and the entire club board for their “tremendous support” during his tenure at Sixfields, stating he would be “forever grateful.” While he did not elaborate on the specific reasons for his resignation, he conveyed to the fans that collectively they had “achieved everything we set out to do.” Chairman Thomas, at the time of Brady’s exit, stated that the board “fully understood the real pressures that come with being a manager.” During Brady’s leadership, Northampton narrowly missed promotion in his initial full season, 2022-23, before successfully guiding the club back to League One in the subsequent campaign, following an impressive beginning. Brady remarked, “In our second season we displayed tremendous courage.” He continued, “With the best start to a season in 52 years, we gained promotion on the final day amassing 83 points – what a day for the club and fans. “It meant everything to me.”” He further noted that his “biggest” accomplishment was the club’s 14th-place finish last season, securing 60 points, which marked their highest position in the third tier since the 2007-08 season. Brady stated, “During my time with this fantastic club, we have accumulated 223 points over three seasons – a feat that has not been achieved in over 20 years.” He added, “It’s one both myself and the staff will always be truly proud of.” He concluded by saying, “Our ultimate goal has always been to unite our players, staff and fans as one and create a feeling of family and togetherness.” He expressed, “I hope I leave with this ethos firmly embedded. Overall I hope I have added value.” The Cobblers have not yet provided any additional updates regarding Brady’s permanent replacement, with Sampson continuing in his temporary managerial capacity. Sampson secured a victory in his initial match against Peterborough, moving the club out of the relegation zone, but subsequently lost his second game against Rotherham. He had previously confessed to being “in two minds” regarding accepting the position should it be offered, as he now prepares the team for an upcoming Nene derby encounter against the Posh, scheduled for Tuesday in the EFL Trophy.