Julio Arca sacked as manager of National League North South Shields

PRIOR Julio Arca, a midfielder for Sunderland and Middlesbrough, was fired as South Shields manager after eight months in charge of the National League North team.

The 42-year-old, who took over as manager in April after serving as Kevin Phillips’ teammate at Sunderland and

making 120 appearances, winning six trophies, and receiving three promotions

as a player, leaves with the promoted team in eighth place in the standings.

Shields lost 3-1 at home to Blyth Spartans on Boxing Day and now sit two points

outside of the play-off spots. They have only won once in their previous seven league games.

“South Shields FC can confirm the decision has been made to part ways with first-team manager Julio Arca and his assistant Tommy Miller,” read a statement posted on the Mariners’ official website.

“The club expresses its sincere gratitude to Julio and Tommy for their efforts

during their time at 1st Cloud Arena and wishes them both well for their future endeavours.

“Julio has been one of the main catalysts of the club’s growth over the last eight

and a half years and will always be regarded as a club legend.

“We regret that his time as first-team manager has come to an end, but this decision has been made as a result of on-

pitch performances and results over the last six weeks.”

Elliott Dickman has been placed in caretaker charge, with support from Lee

Picton, with Shields back in action on Saturday when they make the reverse journey to Blyth.