Dietmar Hamann resigns as manager of Stockport

Dietmar Hamann says promises were broken (GETTY IMAGES)

Former Liverpool and Manchester City midfielder Dietmar Hamann has resigned as manager of Blue Square Premier outfit Stockport.

Hamann, capped 59 times by Germany during his playing career, undertook his first management assignment at Edgeley Park this summer following County's relegation from the Football League.

His appointment to replace Ray Mathias coincided with the promise of new investment in the club from Liverpool-based businessman Tony Evans.

However, a deal failed to materialise and after three league wins in 19 attempts, Hamman cited the collapse of Evans' takeover bid as a key factor in ending his four months in charge.

In a statement on Stockport's official website, Hamman said: "Following a meeting this morning between (chairman) Lord Snape and myself, I have tendered my resignation as manager of Stockport County.

"Having been introduced to the club by Tony Evans, I presumed that the takeover by him and his consortium would have taken place.

"Various promises were made to me at the time of my appointment which subsequently did not take place. I feel therefore unable to continue in the post."

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Hamann confirmed that Stockport's breakdown in negotiations with Evans' consortium was the reason for his departure.

"As I understood at the time the two parties were pretty close to agreeing a deal and that was the reason for me to come to Stockport in the first place," he said.

"The plans didn't materialise because the takeover didn't go through. There was still a chance in the last few weeks but Tony Evans pulling out of the deal has made my position untenable.

"As it happened the plans we had or the promises which were made didn't materialise and for that reason I didn't see myself in a position to carry on as wanted."

Nevertheless the 38-year-old is keen to make a quick return to management despite his difficult baptism with County, who currently sit two points above the Blue Square Bet Premier relegation zone.

"Some players come in and they go out and see it's not for them, but I've thoroughly enjoyed the last four months in my first managerial job," he added.

"I see now that it's made for me and I want to carry on doing it.

"It's unfortunate that I won't be carrying on there due to the circumstances, but I want to stay in football and I want to carry on managing."

PA