Linnets lose long-serving skipper to National League North rivals

King’s Lynn Town have been dealt a huge blow with captain Michael Clunan leaving the club for pastures new at Scunthorpe United.

Clunan has become the second player to leave the Linnets for the Iron following Tyler Denton’s departure early last week.

The 29-year-old made more than 300 appearances in a Lynn shirt and scored more than 56 goals from midfield.

Lynn were unable to keep hold of Clunan’s services despite the best efforts of club owner Stephen Cleeve.

A statement from King’s Lynn Town Football Club a short while ago said: “Sadly, Michael Clunan’s time at King’s Lynn Town FC has come to an end.

“Michael and his girlfriend are expecting their first child later this year and a big offer from Scunthorpe allows Michael to give up his job as an accountant to spend more time with his expanding family.

“There has always been a huge mutual respect between the chairman and his captain. They spent Sunday afternoon together at the chairman’s home trying to find a solution to the problem.

Speaking about Clunan’s decision to leave for the Iron, chairman Stephen Cleeve said “It is a sad day that sees the curtain falling on Michael’s time at King’s Lynn Town FC.

“But Scunthorpe are a big club with a budget that is top half of the National League let alone National League North and one that we cannot compete against.

“Michael is 29 and has given eight years service to our club and I understand the allure of playing in front of thousands of fans every week for a club that was in the Championship a few years ago.

“I know that this has been a very difficult decision for Michael as he is King’s Lynn through and through, but I equally understand why he wants to spend time with his family and this move allows him to do that.

“I thank him for all his service and whilst I personally will find it very odd to see him wearing any other colours than the famous Blue and Gold.

“I know that he is going to continue living in the town and so I am sure he will not be a stranger to the club. Travel well Michael.”

Manager Mark Hughes said, “I would like to thank skip for his efforts since I took over in my interim role last season.

“Michael’s achievements and value to the club has been immeasurable, both on the pitch, in the changing room and in the community in general. I wish him all the very best in the future.”

Clunan told the Scunthorpe website: “I’m excited to take on a new challenge, meet all the boys and get things underway.

“It’s a big football club and it belongs a lot higher than National League North. That’s the aim and hopefully we can achieve that.

“There are some top players coming in with good experience, and good quality. It’s a tough league and it won’t be easy by any means but I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

The midfielder admitted it was a huge decision to leave his hometown club.

“I’d been there eight years and had some promotions, and ups and downs there,” he said.

“I’m a King’s Lynn boy and it was a very tough decision but ultimately I couldn’t turn down an opportunity like Scunthorpe.”