Histon announce departure of manager Lance Key after ‘poor start to the season’

Histon have parted company with boss Lance Key following a ‘poor start’ to the 2023/24 season.

The former goalkeeper, who made more than 150 appearances for the club as player, was appointed manager in October 2016.

Under Key’s guidance the Stutes were crowed Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division champions in 2018/19, but after the resumption of football following the Covid-19 pandemic, Histon were relegated from Step 4 and into the United Counties League Premier Division South.

And while the way that they finished the previous campaign pointed to a bright season ahead, that has so far not materialised. Histon have won just one of their opening 10 league games to sit second from bottom, while they also exited both the Emirates FA Cup and Isuzu FA Vase early.

A club statement read: “It is with significant regret the board has decided it was time to make a change considering the team’s poor start to the season and disappointing league position.

“He will always be welcome at Bridge Road and everyone at Histon FC is grateful for his significant contribution to the club over all of those years. We wish him every success in the future.”

Reserve team manager Matt Payne will take interim charge of the senior side while the club works to secure the services of Key’s permanent successor.

Mark Critoph and Simon Day – both members of Key’s coaching staff – have also left the club.