A proven and respected player in the National League and EFL, Richard enjoyed a distinguished playing career spanning more than 300 games and over 100 goals with York City, Crawley Town, Fleetwood Town and Morecambe FC.

Richard also earned International honours with the England C team.

Since transitioning into Management, Brodie has taken charge at Skelmersdale United; finishing a highly creditable 11th in the NPL Div One West in Season 22-23, before a brief spell at Burscough FC and then latterly at Glossop North End, where he led the club away from the relegation zone and into 16th position in the NWCFL Premier Division in Season 24/25.

Upon his appointment Richard said "I am genuinely excited about being part of the transition of this football club and it was pleasing to discover that we largely share the same ambitions.

We know that we now have an uphill task but we are all up for the fight and we hope that all of the members and supporters are too and I promise you that we will fulfil that support with hard work.

I am looking forward to pulling the squad together this week and then moving on to Barnoldswick away on Saturday. There will be no better feeling than walking out with the lads as Manager of this club and being back in the dugout"

Welcome to the Purps Richard.