
Martin Foyle aims St Mirren parting shot as transfer guru hints at issues behind the scenes
Experienced Foyle, 62, called time on his three years in Paisley to join non-league English side Carlisle United
Former St Mirren recruitment chief Martin Foyle aimed a parting shot at his old club after joining Carlisle United.
Experienced Foyle - who previously bossed Port Vale, Wrexham and York City - quit Saints for the non-league Blues earlier this week.
The former Motherwell talent spotter spent three years in Paisley as the Buddies made history by achieving three top-six finishes on the bounce.
Foyle, 62, claims he had a strong relationship with miracle-working boss Stephen Robinson but insists it wasn't a difficult decision to leave - hinting at issues behind the scenes.
He said: "No, not really. There are things going on in the background that people don't see.
"But my connection with Stephen is absolutely fantastic. He's a top-drawer manager, but sometimes, you need to move on.
"Fresh faces, meeting people, but it's the project of trying to get Carlisle back in the league that excites me."
Foyle will now work with Welsh legend Mark Hughes, who has extended his stay at Brunton Park despite relegation from League Two to the National League.
Foyle added: "I've had a brief chat with Mark. We're meeting up on Friday at his house so we can have a good feel of what he's thinking and wants.
"Then it's a case, really, of what I can do. I've known Mark before.
"He's come across, good football pedigree, we were chatting away and he was just trying to sell me it bit by bit and I just got hooked on it. That's why I'm here."
Former Celtic and Rangers transfer guru John Park has been appointed as Foyle's replacement after leaving his role as head of recruitment at Blackburn Rovers.
St Mirren chief executive Keith Lasley said: "We are sorry to see Martin moving on and wish him the best of luck in his new challenge.
"His contributions have been key in the club's progression over the past few seasons and we thank him for all his efforts.
"We have, however, moved quickly to bring John to the club and we are excited to welcome him to St Mirren.
"John's experiences across the world, significantly in player trading and youth development, make him the ideal person to build upon the relative success at the club over the past few years in line with our club strategy."
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