Hartlepool United legend and ex-Sunderland midfielder eyes management job at Spennymoor Town

Former Hartlepool United and Sunderland midfielder Tommy Miller is hoping to land the role as manager of Spennymoor Town on a permanent basis.
Jason Ainsley, former manager of Spennymoor Town.Jason Ainsley, former manager of Spennymoor Town.
Jason Ainsley, former manager of Spennymoor Town.

The 41-year-old was named as the Moors interim manager following the surprise departure of club legend Jason Ainsley last month.

Miller was thrown straight in at the deep end as he took charge for the first time within 48-hours of his appointment when his side battled to a point at York City.

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Since that draw at Bootham Crescent, Miller has helped the Moors collect four points from their festive fixtures against North East rivals Darlington and Gateshead.

They also saw off Marske United with a 6-2 win in an FA Trophy third round tie before seeing their interest in the competition ended by a penalty shoot-out defeat against Southport just days later.

His side were set to return to action on Tuesday night with a home game against Hereford – but the fixture has been postponed for a second time this season after individuals at both clubs tested positive for Covid-19.

Miller will get his next opportunity to impress in his interim role when the Moors host Leamington on Saturday and he is hoping to do enough to be named as Ainsley’s permanent successor.

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“Jason was aware that I wanted to get into management when I came to the club,” he explained.

“As a club, we all owe Jason a lot, and I include myself in that.

“The success he has had over the years has been ridiculous really and it couldn’t have happened without him.

“I was learning when I came in and I have learnt from Jason during my time working under him.

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“I have always been a coach and I love being out there on the training pitch working with players.

“But my long-term aim has always been to be a manager and I want to have a crack at it.

“You never know what’s around corner, so I want to make the most of the opportunity that has been handed to me and then see if I can get the role on a more permanent basis.”