RAMSBOTTOM UNITED have appointed Lee Sculpher as their new manager after the sudden departure of Derek Egan from the Riverside.

Sculpher is no stranger to success in the lower echelons of football after he led Clitheroe to the North West Counties First Division title in 2004 before resigning last November after nearly five years at the helm.

United had one of their best seasons in years after finishing fifth in North West Counties Premier League and the shock departure of Egan has arisen from disagreements over the wage bill for next term.

Egan said: "I left the club on good terms but the reason I left was the wage bill.

"The club wanted to go in a different way to me and I respect their views.

"I want to be successful at what I do and want to win things but I don't want to criticise the club after what was an amicable split.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club and it was a great learning curve."

However, Egan admitted his departure could affect the playing squad.

The former Oldham Athletic youth player said: "I have spoken to all but two of the players and they have all had offers to play for other clubs and it is now up to Ramsbottom to try and keep them."

Egan was also keen to stress that he hasn't had any offers from other clubs.

The 41-year-old said: "I haven't got anything lined up but I do want to be involved with something next year.

"I have had no offers yet but I'm happy to sit back and do nothing until an opportunity comes up."

United secretary Malcolm Holt said: "We could not meet Derek Egan's increased budget for the coming season.

"However, we would like to thank Derek for all his efforts last season and wish him all the best for the future."

There is an informal meeting for all old and new United players at Ramsbottom Cricket Club on Wednesday June 29 at 8pm, with Lee Sculpher in attendance.