Birch: 'I want my job back'
by Alan Rowley, 23rd June 2002

John Birch, former Nottinghamshire team manager, wants a return to control at Trent Bridge. 47 year old Birch, who left the club in 1992, is said to be "desperate to return to the Notts' helm".

Birch, who was born in Aspley, joined the Notts playing staff in the early seventies and was eventually appointed manager when his playing days ended in 1988. He resigned his post in 1992 after leading Notts to the Sunday League title in 1991 - the county's last trophy success.

Stand in manager Mick Newell's position is reviewed at the end of the season and Birch said: "I know it depends on how well Mick does, but I regret leaving the club and am desperate to pick up where I left off. It's tragic to see the way the club is at the moment, and I know I could get more out of the players than they are currently producing."

Birch has his own ideas about where Notts are going wrong. He said: " Basically, it's all about coaching and the team ethic. Get that right and the results will follow. You have to get the players working and playing for each other. There's no fancy recipe for success, but there's plenty of talent at the club."

Birch concluded: "I intend to speak to Notts about the situation very soon."

Since he severed his connections with Notts, Birch has been doing the rounds on the club circuit, notably with Papplewick and Linby in the South Notts League and Sawley and Long Eaton Park in the Derbyshire Premier League.