Challinor holding fort for new boss

The former Football League player, pictured, has agreed to take charge of team affairs until the Premier Division club appoint a successor to Andrew Wilson following his departure from the Zeeco Stadium on Tuesday.

In a statement released on Friday, club officials said the 34-year-old will take the helm for the first time on Saturday when the Daniels host Nantwich Town in the EVO-STIK NPL's top flight.

Challinor will be supported by teammates Jordan Smith, Lewis Carr and Richard Knight. To ensure he is still available to turn out as one of their most experienced players, he will also be backed up on the touchline by director of football Guy Walton.

Stamford's club captain told supporters he couldn't wait to embrace the challenge and turn around the club's fortunes at their new home at Borderville.

He said: "It is so frustrating when we come off the pitch knowing we haven't got the right result. We so badly want to give something back to the fans.

"This club means a lot to me and I will do anything to help until a new manager comes in - and then I'll support him. The chairman spoke to me on Tuesday and I was delighted. It meant a lot to me to be asked to fulfill that role.

"We had a really enjoyable training session that evening - Lewis Carr took some of it - and I know the players will do their very best for the supporters."

He added: "Nothing is certain in sport and Nantwich will no doubt come here expecting to pick up the points but we would all love to make it our day. That would mean a lot."

Stamford AFC chairman Bob Feetham said: "I know some people have felt that the players don't care as much as them. That is understandable. It's been a tough time. But, having talked at length to Challs, believe me that is not the case.

"They are passionate to turn it round. It's not all a bag of negatives. That also encourages me, and my fellow directors, to get the appointment 100 per cent right this time."

Former Market Harborough and Corby Town boss Wilson was appointed at the end of September as the successor to David Staff. After losing his first game at the helm at Coleshill Town in the FA Cup, the 39-year-old secured two draws and a single victory from eight league outings before last Saturday's 2-1 defeat at First Division South Carlton Town in the FA Trophy triggered his departure.

Image courtesy of www.srsn.co.uk

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