Barrow AFC manager is refusing to get into a war of words with AFC Fylde chairman David Haythornthwaite following comments he made in the matchday programme prior to his side’s 1-0 win at Mill Farm.

The Coasters made an approach for Evatt’s services back in October after sacking Dave Challinor, which the Bluebirds rejected, with the 38-year-old subsequently signing an improved contract.

In his programme notes, Haythornthwaite said: “We had some serious discussions with Ian and I thought we had a deal agreed, only for him to renege twice and stay with Barrow.

“I was very disappointed at the time and it once again made me realise what a very different game football is, and how a handshake is not really a handshake.”

Haythornthwaite did not attend the game between the two teams, which was decided by Scott Quigley’s 51st-minute goal to give AFC their first-ever victory over Fylde and keep them at the top of the National League table.

Evatt said: “I’m not going to get involved in tit-for-tat. You have a responsibility as a chairman or manager to be professional.

“I’m certainly professional and, however he conducts his business away from football, he’s probably not used to people telling him ‘no’ is the answer, and that’s the truth.

“When you’re spoilt and have an embarrassment of riches, you can become complacent with people and expect them to do what you want them to do.

“I wasn’t willing to give up the chance that Barrow gave me, I wasn’t willing to give up the support I’m getting from the supporters and I wasn’t willing to give up on my players, it’s as simple as that. I want us to do this together and achieve something special and, for financial gain, that means more to me than money.”