[CFC1]

Atkinson returns with Kettering

Controversial former Manchester United manager Ron Atkinson has returned to Kettering Town, the club that launched his coaching career, as director of football. Atkinson, who steered United to two FA Cup triumphs in the 1980s, has been out of the game since resigning as a television pundit in 2004 after making racist comments.
"Rockingham Road is where Ron Atkinson began his illustrious and highly successful managerial career," Kettering club secretary Mike Chase said in a statement on Tuesday. "With Ron's knowledge, experience and achievements, he will certainly be involved in and responsible for all aspects of the football club." Despite his "off-air" comments directed at former Chelsea and France defender Marcel Desailly, for which he apologised, Atkinson has always denied being racist. During his first spell at West Bromwich Albion from 1978-81 the club became the first to field three black players at one time in Brendon Batson, Laurie Cunningham and Cyrille Regis. Kettering manager Morell Maison is black but Atkinson, known as 'Big Ron', rejected suggestions that his decision to take the job was designed to repair his image. "I suggest you look at the team sheet when I took Aston Villa to Everton in 1993 and eight of the 13 were black so why would I need to make a publicity stunt now," he told Sky Sports. Atkinson began his coaching career at Kettering in 1971 and also had spells at Cambridge United, Aston Villa, Sheffield Wednesday and Atletico Madrid. Kettering are second in Conference North, effectively the sixth tier of English football. "I've always had a soft spot for the club," Atkinson said. "They've slipped down a bit over the last few years but hopefully they can get back where they belong."
Kettering's last flirtation with a high-profile name ended in tears when former England midfielder Paul Gascoigne's stint as manager lasted barely a month.

Word is that Jade Goody is gonna be his assistant!