Cambridge United part company with sporting director Ben Strang

Sporting director Ben Strang has left Cambridge United by mutual consent with immediate effect.

Strang first joined the U’s as chief scout back in 2011 before leaving for a couple of years to take on the role of Norwich City’s head of academy.

However, he returned to Cambridge in 2016 and has been part of numerous successes, including promotion to League One, the FA Cup victory at Newcastle United and the opening of a new state-of-the-art training facility.

But following a difficult period in terms of recruitment – with a number of signings either struggling to make a significant impact or stay fit – the decision has been taken to part ways.

Paul Barry, the club’s majority owner, said, “On behalf of everyone associated with the club, I would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Ben for his huge contribution to everything we have achieved on and off the pitch over the last decade and more.

“He has brought some great players to Cambridge United who have helped create many great memories for us all and he leaves the football club in much better shape than when he joined it.

“Ben is a man of many talents, which I am sure will see him go on to achieve much more in his career in football. Alongside that, he has great personal qualities and is someone of real integrity and decency with a strong work ethic and sense of team.

“We have all enjoyed working with him enormously during his time at the Club, and both sides have agreed that we have come to a natural point when change would be beneficial to both of us. It goes without saying he will always be a great friend of the Club and always welcome back at the Abbey.

“Ahead of us now is the fight to stay in League One and the support our fans have shown us throughout these tough times has been fantastic. Thank you.

“We know the team will need it more than ever as we attack the last third of the season.”

Strang added: “Clearly this season has carried significant challenges but when reflecting on my overall spell with the club, I am immensely proud of what we have achieved.

“The League Two promotion, FA Cup win at Newcastle and fantastic new training ground building have been key highlights, amongst many others across the past eight years.

“I am extremely grateful to Paul, Mark (Green, part owner) and the board in allowing me the privilege of leading the football department here.

“I would also like to place on record my thanks to all of my colleagues across the period, with particular gratitude to the CEO's and head coaches I've been fortunate to work alongside, for their support and collaboration.

CEO Alex Tunbridge will take on Strang’s role on an interim basis until a successor is appointed.