Mangnall's secretarial role was filled first by Tj. Wallworth, then by J.J. Bentley, who remained in the post following Robson's arrival from Brighton on 28th December, 1914. Robson worked under Bentley, with responsibility for the playing arrangements.

With the First World War badly disrupting football, Robson's United remained a First Division club, but they were relegated in 1922, seven months after Robson resigned on health grounds.

He remained at the club, however, as assistant to John Chapman.