Trafford appoint new manager

Baker returns to the club for a second spell, having previously made his first foray into management with the club back in 2015.

Having retired at the age of 30 due to injury, Baker's first stint at Shawe View saw him take charge between 2015-20.

During his five years at the helm, Baker brought silverware to the club in the form of the Northern Premier League Cup in 2019.

He also guided Trafford to a play-off place in 2018, with the club never finishing outside of the top 10 during his time in charge.

Since leaving the role five years ago, Baker has focused on his family and his business, whilst keeping in touch with the non-league scene by carrying out scouting, most recently for National League side Altrincham.

“I am really excited to be back at Trafford, and for the challenge ahead," he said.

"I look forward to meeting the players and getting to work with them straight away.

"We should be under no illusions that the task ahead is a difficult one. We need everyone at the club backing the players if we are to get out of the position we’re in.

"I will give it my all to try and reverse our fortunes, and I cannot wait to get started.”

Baker joins a Trafford side currently seven points adrift at the foot of the NPL West Division table, having picked up just five points from their opening 15 games.

He replaces Karl Marginson, whose departure was confirmed in the aftermath of Saturday's 4-2 defeat at Kidsgrove Athletic.

Marginson was first appointed to the role in October 2023, leading the club to safety in his first season.

A ninth-place finish followed last term, but after a difficult start to the 2025/26 campaign, the club have decided to part ways with Marginson after discussions between both parties.

In a statement thanking their outgoing manager, Trafford said: "The board would like to thank Karl for the first class way he has carried out the role over the last two years.

"Unfortunately, the current campaign has seen us unable to build on last season, and all parties have agreed a fundamental change is best for the club at this moment in time."