Huncoat United boss jokingly declines Blackburn Rovers job

Mick Kerr, manager of one of Huncoat United's junior teams, has definitively ruled himself out of the running for the Blackburn Rovers job. Son Harry was desperate for him to take it! <i>(Image: Mick Kerr)</i>
Mick Kerr, manager of one of Huncoat United's junior teams, has definitively ruled himself out of the running for the Blackburn Rovers job. Son Harry was desperate for him to take it! (Image: Mick Kerr)
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Blackburn Rovers are on the lookout for a new manager after confirmation of John Eustace's move to Derby County, but one local man has already removed himself from the frame.

Eustace officially left his role at Rovers on Wednesday, February 12, the morning after the 2-0 win at West Bromwich Albion which was led by David Lowe.

This means the club is searching for its fourth permanent manager since the turn of the decade to lead the team for a playoff push.

However, one coach and lifelong Rovers fan has confirmed he will not be taking the reins - though it's probably one you've not come across before.

Mick and his son HarryMick and his son Harry (Image: Mick Kerr) Mick Kerr, the manager of Huncoat United's under-8s Whites team, has taken to social media to allay parents' fears that he would be leaving the Bolton Avenue side.

He joked that any team, including his beloved Rovers, that matches the £2.75 release clause in his contract will be politely rebuffed.

In a statement, Mick said: "I wish to clarify my position given recent events that have caused anxiety around Bolton Avenue Playing Fields.

READ MORE: Eustace's first words on Blackburn exit and Derby decision

"As many people are aware I'm a lifelong Blackburn Rovers supporter and, as a result, I'm flattered by the rumours linking me to the upcoming managerial vacancy at Ewood Park.

"Despite this, I wish to reassure parents, players, and the club that not only am I fully committed to guiding the players through their current campaign, but I also intend to show the same loyalty to Huncoat United that they have shown me and honour the multi-year contract I signed in May 2023 to manage the current under-8 White Team.

Mick and his sons are huge Rovers fansMick and his sons are huge Rovers fans (Image: Mick Kerr) "Should an official approach be made from Blackburn Rovers, or any other team that matched the £2.75 buyout clause within my contract, it will be politely declined.

"Neither I nor the club will make any further comment on this matter."

Parents and young footballers at Huncoat will be breathing a sigh of relief to learn their dedicated coach is going nowhere.

David Lowe will remain in charge of Rovers for the time being, supported by Damien Johnson, Ben Benson, Mike Sheron and Paul Butler until a permanent successor is appointed.

Rovers sit fifth in the Championship table following Wednesday night's win and remain in the hunt for a play-off place with 14 games left to go.

Ex-Wolves boss Gary O'Neil, current Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens, and England U21s boss and former caretaker national boss Lee Carsley are favourites with the bookies to get the job at Ewood Park, with current caretaker David Lowe, ex-Wales boss Rob Edwards, and Steven Gerrard also among the fancied names.

Huncoat are also currently raising funds to replace the roof of the clubhouse at Bolton Avenue.

If you wish to donate, head to the GoFundMe website and search for 'Raise the Roof.'

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