Caretaker gets the nod after impressive start

EVO-STIK League Witton Albion have installed Anthony Sheehan as their new manager.

The 32-year-old’s appointment was announced on Monday following his successful spell holding the fort at the Premier Division club since the departure of former manager Brian Pritchard two weeks ago.

Sheehan, pictured, a tough-tackling midfielder and defender, will be assisted by Nigel Deeley and Dave Andrews at Wincham Park. The trio have made an impressive and unbeaten start since taking over from Pritchard to lift the club to third spot and have the full backing of delighted officials.

Chairman Mark Harris said: "In some respects this has been a difficult decision to make due to the exceptional quality of applicants for the position. It is testament to Brian Pritchard and the excellent squad of players that so many applicants came forward. It was only right and proper that the club explore all options and go through a full process.

"However, that said, Anthony Sheehan made that decision a lot easier with the results that he and the team have achieved in the interim period, and Anthony has shown that he can make changes when needed. He is the man to take us forward."

He added: "I am delighted to be able to appoint from within again and look forward to continuity both on and off the field. Anthony has a clear brief regarding the budget but I am looking forward to working with him and the management team, starting tomorrow evening against Curzon Ashton."

Sheehan and his assistants take charge for the first time on a permanent basis on Tuesday night in the EVO-STIK League's top flight when the club host Curzon Ashton.

Sheehan, who joined the club in September 2011 from Colwyn Bay and has scored 19 goals in 130 appearances, said: "Myself, Nige and Dave are delighted to be given the opportunity to manage such a great club and continue to produce the excellent football that this squad is playing. Since arriving at the club I’ve been made very welcome by all the fans and this is now the next step for me personally and a chance to move the team forward.

"It’s no secret that there are going to have to be some tough decisions made with regards to the overspend on the budget but I am sure the fans will back this team all season as the lads are not only good players but also good people with a real hunger and desire to succeed. I’d like to thank the fans for their continued support and ask them to keep cheering us on as it makes a difference."