Foyle stuns York after deciding to call time on tenure

The former Port Vale chief stepped down yesterday after 20 months in charge at Bootham Crescent.

Foyle's departure came following talks with chairman Jason McGill on Thursday night.

City lost 5-0 at Mansfield Town on Tuesday and have started the season slowly following last May's defeat to Oxford United in the Blue Square Premier play-off final.

Assistant manager Andy Porter and youth team boss Steve Torpey will take charge for today's trip to Tamworth and Monday's home clash with Darlington.

Among the early contenders to succeed Foyle, it's believed, is former Huddersfield Town manager Peter Jackson.

A spokesman for the York board said: "We are very sad and disappointed Martin Foyle has left the club as manager.

"Martin has been a pleasure to work with and has made a highly positive contribution to York City over the past 20 months.

"It is thanks to him we have enjoyed two Wembley finals, a third round FA Cup fixture against Stoke City, 10 consecutive wins and have come very close to promotion back into the Football League.

"We thank Martin for all his efforts and wish him the very best for his future career.

"The Board will be embarking on a recruitment process for a new manager next week."

Foyle took charge towards the end of 2008, when York were in danger of being relegated from the Conference. He subsequently steered the club to safety, while he also earned the club a first trip to the new Wembley for the FA Trophy final.

Stevenage Borough triumphed 2-0 at the national stadium but York responded magnificently to qualify for last season's play-offs.

After beating Luton Town 2-0 over a two-legged semi-final, the Minstermen took on Oxford at Wembley but Chris Wilder's side triumphed 3-1.

This time around, York have won just three of their opening 10 games and sit 15th in the table. They also sold Richard Brodie just before the transfer deadline day.

Foyle said: "Andy Porter and I have lived up here in York six nights a week and worked tirelessly to change the fortunes of the club to get it back to its position of challenging at the top of the league. We have certainly achieved this.

"With the money from the cup runs, Wembley visits and the sale of Richard Brodie, I know I leave the club in a much healthier position than when I arrived."