MARK Collier has reiterated his commitment to the Chippenham Town cause after the backroom reshuffle that saw long-time number two Tom Jones depart Hardenhuish Park.

A tumultuous last week saw chairman Neil Blackmore instigate changes at the National League South outfit, with Jones removed from his role and veteran player Gary Horgan stepping up to a new ‘head coach’ position, goalkeeping coach Jason Matthews also assisting.

The break-up of Collier’s partnership with Jones - one that guided the Bluebirds to the Southern League Premier Division title just last season – inevitably led to some concern over the manager’s own position, with a four-match losing streak which has seen the side tumble down the table adding to the issues.

Despite admitting the last week had taken its toll though, Collier insists he is up for the fight as he refocuses on getting his side back on an upward curve.

“Nothing has changed on my part. I’ll continue to do my seven days a week for the football club as happens at this level so there is no change from my point of view,’’ Collier told the Gazette & Herald.

“These things happen and we have to move on. I’m at the helm and steering the ship really. They want me to make sure I continue and keep moving forward.

“It’s a big football club, a good football club. We’re certainly in a bit of a dip at the moment but why shouldn’t we be? We’re in a big league and those kind of things are going to happen.

“We need to get back to winning ways and it’s all guns blazing performance-wise.

“It’s been the end of a tough week but these things happen in football. The chairman thinks it’s for the betterment of the football club and at the end of the day it’s his club.

“He’s made a decision and we have to back that. Me as the manager, Gary Horgan, Jason Matthews and the players, our responsibility is to get the team safe and secure in National League South.’’

Collier revealed former Swindon Supermarine man Horgan will take on many of the duties performed by Jones.

“The title (head coach) has been given to him by the chairman. In short, he just replaces Tom (Jones),’’ added Collier.

“He will take Tom’s responsibilities as well as being part of the playing squad as well. Gary is not naïve enough to think that he will be playing all season. He’s 40 years of age and he’s got a lot to offer and experience at this level.

“He wants to get himself into coaching as well and he’s got some good ideas as well. He will step up to the plate.’’

Town's National League South trip to Poole, which was postponed on Saturday, has been rescheduled for next Tuesday (January 16) at 7.45pm).