John Pemberton slams Kidderminster for ‘fake news’ on why he resigned

John Pemberton has slammed Kidderminster over his managerial resignation from the club on Wednesday.

He claims that the statement from Harriers announcing his departure was ‘fake news’ designed to blame him for the National League North side’s poor form, with the club sitting 17th in the table.

Kidderminster Harriers: John Pemberton on resigning as boss https://t.co/sTfhsVdLDX

— Worcester News Sport (@Worcesternewsp3) November 27, 2019

The ex-Crewe Alexandra, Crystal Palace, Sheffield United and Leeds United defender says he was told when signing the deal to become their manager thar he would get cash to sign players but two weeks later the club said it was in administration and they couldn’t afford anyone.

Pemberton said: “I was given a blind horse and asked to win the Grand National, all I’ve been told is lies.

“The statement made it clear they have taken no responsibility.

“I found the position untenable. I cannot carry on in the circumstances. For six months it’s been a firefight.

“I have had no backing at the club. All they have done is move the goalposts. I was promised the earth but they cut budgets.”

The statement from the club announcing Pemberton’s resignation said: “While managing the club has had its challenges this season, we feel strongly that with the players at our disposal and with what is a considerable budget for this division we should be in a far better situation than we currently find ourselves.”

He adds that money got so tight that the staff weren’t sure if there would be a team bus for their away league clash against Blyth Spartans.

He continued: “I had nine players for pre-season, I signed Ashley Hemmings (in October) and thought that would start a turnaround but I was told I couldn’t bring in any players.”

Pemberton reveals that he was willing to go without making a scene, though he couldn’t help but lash out at the club after reading the statement.

He said: “I found it difficult to read, I thought that is not right. I walked away and was happy to keep my mouth shut but they are pushing it under my door.

“I wish they had been honest from day one so I knew what I was walking into.”

Harriers have declined to make a further comment.

Their original statement also said: “Discussions were held with John earlier this week in light of the team’s current league position and early exit from the FA Cup and FA Trophy.

“At the end of these discussions John offered his resignation which was accepted by the club.

“We would like to thank John for his effort while in post and wish him well for the future.

“The club feels it is still well placed to achieve this season and as such the owners will take their time in appointing the team’s next manager — an appointment which will be crucial.

“In the interim assistant manager Russ Penn will take charge of the team for at least the next three or four matches with our full support.

“It is clear that Russ is extremely popular with both players, staff and supporters and we are confident they will respond accordingly during a busy period of fixtures.

“We’d urge all Harriers fans to give Russ their full support, starting with this weekend’s (Saturday’s) game with Southport at Aggborough.”