Vince returns to Witton

7:45pm Sunday 11th May 2008

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JIM Vince is back at Wincham Park less than a fortnight after he quit the club.

He agreed a new two-year deal with Albion this afternoon, bringing to an end a tumultuous ten days for the club that had seen first Vince then chairman Mike Worthington walk out.

"He was the supporters' overwhelming first choice," said acting chairman Mark Harris.

"Happily we've been able to combine what people want with what the club can afford."

On Friday he told the Guardian that an announcement on the club's next manager would come early next week.

But, after an intense round of talks with representatives from Witton's fan base yesterday, Saturday, he was able to guarantee the playing budget Vince feels he will need to make it third time lucky and take Albion to top spot in the UniBond Premier Division.

"It took us a bit longer than expected to come up with the right financial package," added Harris.

"Last season the fans were superb, complementing the cash provided by the club with consistent fundraising which was vital to our title challenge. "That commitment has been increased."

With that backing comes added pressure for the 40-year-old manager, who must manage supporters' expectations as well as their donations.

There is little doubt he, along with returning assistant Nigel Deeley, is up for the challenge.

Vince had been mooted for possible moves to Blue Square North duo Southport and Altrincham since his acrimonious exit following a fall out with Worthington but, after the pair sorted out who would be sitting on their bench next term, it put an end to the speculation.

Now he can concentrate on leading Witton to promotion after two successive second placed finishes.

Both were followed by failure in the play offs.

Vince's return comes as a welcome boost to the players, many of whom had a clause in their contract permitting them to switch to other clubs should he leave.

A number had agreed terms on new deals before Vince handed in his notice just hours after Albion's play off semi final defeat on penalties against Buxton.

Harris added: "All along this has been about maintaining continuity, and I'm delighted that we can now look forward once again.

"If we all work together as directors and supporters should, raising money and reducing costs wherever possible, we've got half a chance of achieving the success that every true Wittoner deserves."

The club has called an information meeting for Thursday, May 29 when a new commercial team, consisting of Alan Simpson and Samantha Raistrick, will be on hand to meet supporters.