Former Leeds United, Middlesbrough and Huddersfield Town midfielder Adam Clayton has been appointed as the permanent player-manager of Matlock Town, marking his first full-time venture into senior football management.
The 36-year-old, who joined the Gladiators as a player-coach last October, stepped in as caretaker boss following the departure of Ryan Cresswell. After a steady interim spell that included two wins, three draws and just two losses, Clayton has now been handed the reins on a permanent basis.
“The Next Step for Me Personally”
Clayton’s transition from player to manager has been gradual and intentional. He spoke passionately about the opportunity and his vision for the club as it prepares for life in the eighth tier following relegation from the Northern Premier League Premier Division – a demotion that came after the club fielded an ineligible player.
“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to take the club forward,” Clayton told the club’s website. “I see this as a great chance to build something really, really good. As a club we have everything in place to achieve something great and go on an amazing journey together.
“I always knew the next step for me personally was being a coach/manager and this last month has only confirmed that in my own mind. I love the responsibility and all the challenges the role has brought forward so far.
“We are already working tirelessly to keep the players we want and recruit the players we need to take this club to where we believe it should be.
“To the fans, we are going to need you more than ever to help get our club back where it should be and beyond.”
Vast Experience to Draw From
A product of Manchester City’s academy, Clayton spent most of his professional career in Yorkshire. After stints at Leeds United and Huddersfield Town, he enjoyed his most sustained spell at Middlesbrough, where he made over 200 appearances between 2014 and 2020. He later played for Birmingham City, Doncaster Rovers and Bradford City, before moving into non-league football with Rochdale, Liversedge, and now Matlock.
Though Matlock’s relegation has been a bitter pill to swallow, the club now has a manager with experience of the Football League’s top tiers and a clear passion for the next chapter. His grounding in elite academies and competitive environments could prove invaluable in restoring Matlock’s fortunes.
Writer’s View
Appointing Adam Clayton is a bold but exciting move for Matlock Town. While he’s untested at this level in a full-time managerial role, his experience on the pitch and early signs of leadership suggest promise. Clayton’s emphasis on unity, ambition and hard work is exactly what a club in transition needs. If given time and support, he could be the driving force behind a genuine revival.
