Andy Morrison has fired a cryptic parting shot at ‘those who hide away’ and ‘cower in their ivory towers’ after leaving Airbus UK Broughton.

Andy Preece’s long-term assistant boss has been absent from the Wingmakers’ dug-out since the home loss against Bala Town in February.

The club said last Friday that the former Manchester City captain, who arrived at the Airfield with Preece in January 2012, had left ‘by mutual consent’.

The Chronicle understands an incident after the 2-1 defeat to Bala is behind his departure.

Morrison did not want to make the details public, insisting that ‘most people know what happened’, and he chose his words carefully this week when asked about his exit, hinting at some bitterness.

Morrison said: “There will always be warriors, those who sail close to the wind, who wear their heart on their sleeve, those who make mistakes but go again. They live for the battle.

“There are also those who hide away behind closed doors, who cower in their ivory towers. Those who can’t look you in the eye.

“Thankfully I know which category I belong to.”

Andy Morrison has left his position as assistant manager at Airbus UK Broughton after three successful years
Andy Morrison has left his position as assistant manager at Airbus UK Broughton after three successful years

Morrison was praised by the club for his contribution during a period which saw Airbus reach the qualifying stages of the Europa League three years in a row.

Chairman Micky Mayfield said: “I would like to thank Andy for his efforts at the club, helping to develop the team to the level that they now play at. We all wish him every success for the future.”

Morrison, 45 today, had signed a three-and-a-half year deal in November to deter further approaches for his services.

His departure is a blow for boss Preece, who worked alongside Inverness-born Morrison at Worcester City and Northwich Victoria.

The former Crystal Palace striker said: “I can only say that without ‘Jock’ the club would not be in the position it finds itself in now. He should be coaching at the highest level.

“It’s a sad reflection of football that jobs are not handed out on ability. We had a telepathy built up over 10 years that you can’t replace. I’d like to thank him for everything he’s done for the club, players and myself. He will be irreplaceable as a coach and a person.”

Morrison is ‘immensely proud’ of his success alongside Preece at the Airfield, and told The Chronicle: “Looking back now, it’s incredible how quickly we turned a struggling team into the team that has now achieved European football for the last three seasons.”