Nigel Clough, the manager of Mansfield Town, says the door is still open for James Perch to work with the club’s young players if he so chooses. Perch just left for nearby Northern Premier League team Ilkeston Town.
Perch, 37, has decided to continue playing under former Stags goalkeeper Ian Deakin, who just took over the Robins after two straight promotions with Long Eaton United, rather than accepting a coaching position at Mansfield.
On and off the field, Perchy has been absolutely fantastic, according to Clough.
“In his current situation, he can still work a few nights a week to keep things going, and he also performs scouting duties for a Premier League side.
“In light of what he is dealing with at the time, I believe it is ideal for him.
He has been amazing for the three years that we have been here, especially considering the damage he sustained (a broken skull) and his ability to return early and play a significant role.
Before he arrived here, I didn’t know him, but once you start working with him, you realize what a fantastic professional he is.He has had the career he has and is still playing at the age of 37 because he has played at the highest level. He is both an excellent professional role model and a wonderful person.
The door is still open if he wants to come and help us with this U19 group as well; he has done a tremendous job helping the young men here. Once he’s settled down at Ilkeston, we’ll see how it goes. But he’ll likely be wearing enough.
James is an important signing for the football team since he consistently acts professionally in all he does, said an ecstatic Deakin.
“Since we were students at Forest together from a young age, his attitude and application over time are a credit to himself.
“Over the years, he has been a fantastic player, and his longevity is terrifying.
“We’re incredibly excited to have him join the team; he will strengthen our side with experience, quality, and steel. We will need his leadership skills moving ahead, especially in a league this competitive.
James is a tremendously major addition for us, and we’re thrilled to have him on board. I’m confident he’ll get along well with the guys.
Jakub Kruszynski, a talented young midfielder for the Stags, has also been loaned to Deakin for one month.
Both players made their debuts during Worksop Town’s 2-1 home loss on Saturday; Kruszynski left the game injured soon before halftime.
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