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Jack Parkinson's Maidstone United future in doubt after leaving academy role

00:00, 14 July 2015

updated: 11:15, 14 July 2015

Jack Parkinson has left Maidstone Picture: Martin Apps
Jack Parkinson has left Maidstone Picture: Martin Apps

Jack Parkinson could be on his way out of Maidstone United after leaving his role as head coach of the club's academy.

Parkinson was given permission to play in a friendly for League 2 Cambridge on Saturday after talks over a new deal with Stones' academy broke down.

He's not heard back from Cambridge but there's also interest from a National League club.

Stones boss Jay Saunders said: "Jack's contract with the academy was up and he and the club couldn't agree a new deal.

"There's been no falling-out and he's not been asked to leave the club altogether but obviously he's not earning the money he was so he's decided to see if there's a chance of full-time football somewhere.

"Richard Money, Cambridge's manager, tried to sign him before when he left Welling.

"He got in touch to see if he could have a look at him.

"We're just waiting to see what happens. He hadn't heard back from them when I last spoke to him but a Conference club have also been in touch.

"If he's going to leave, ideally I want it done by the end of the week.

"I need to know sooner rather than later because I'd need to get someone else in."

Parkinson, who has a year left on his playing contract at the Gallagher, led the academy to numerous trophies and was credited with helping Ben Swift land a move to Premier League Aston Villa.

Saunders added: "A big reason why he dropped down to sign for us was because of his role at the academy.

"Now that situation has changed he maybe feels it's time to step back up.

"It would be a wrench for him to leave - he's enjoyed it here - but we all have bills to pay."

Parkinson will continue to coach at Maidstone's Wednesday night Player Development Centre and the Pebbles on Saturday mornings.

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