Danny Lafferty appointed Colls boss as Clegg steps down

Lafferty takes over from Michael Clegg, who stepped down earlier this week due to work and family commitments.

Beginning his association with the club back in 2009, Lafferty went on to feature more than 300 times for Colls across three spells.

Lafferty previously captained Colls to the NPL West Division title in 2019, having also won the NPL League Cup and NWCFL Premier Division with the club.

On the appointment, he said: "It feels good [to take the reins]. It's a club that I've been at for a long time.

"It was definitely bittersweet for me. It's an honour to lead the club and it's something I've always wanted to do, but at the same time, I reckon I've done 80-90% of my non-league career with Cleggy, whether that be playing under him or managing alongside him.

"It's a bit sad, but he needs a break. He works hard and is busy with his family.

"I've no doubts that he'll have a break, the fire will be burning again and he'll get a good gig in the summer."

During his two spells in charge of Colls, Clegg oversaw more than 350 games.

Having enjoyed three promotions in five seasons during his first spell, Clegg went on to manage Ashton United, Warrington Rylands and Macclesfield.

He returned to the Dreams2Reality Stadium in August 2024 and led the club to NPL West Division safety after a difficult start to the season.

Clegg's successor, Lafferty, took charge of his first game as Colls boss on New Year's Day as they drew 2-2 at Clitheroe - a result which leaves the club 10th in the table, six points adrift of the play-offs.