High-flier takes off with Robins

Ashton United are hoping they've set a young football administrator on the road to the Premier League after appointing Michael Brown as the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League club’s new Assistant Secretary.

The 20-year-old rookie Football Business & Media student, pictured, arrived at Hurst Cross last August on a placement with other students from Burnley's University College of Football Business and was appointed by Ashton United's Board this week after impressing officials from day one.

The Robins say he's proved a valuable asset to the off-field team at the Premier Division club, turning his hand to everything from ghost writing the captain’s column in the matchday programme to manning the turnstiles and working alongside Club Secretary Andy Finnigan.

Ashton United Director Steve Hobson believes the UCFB student can go all the way to the top in football after seeing his work and enthusiasm over the ten months of campaign and says the appointment is thoroughly deserved.

Hobson said: "Michael is definitely one to watch for the future. We are extremely lucky to have him volunteer his services to the club and we will help him learn as much as he can in his 'goal' to reach the higher echelons of the game.

"I have no doubt that as long as his attitude and commitment remain as fresh as it has been whilst with Ashton United he is destined for a bright future, one I hope that will bring a Premier Division first team squad back to Hurt Cross for a friendly in years to come."

Brown is delighted with his chance to start climbing the football's industry career ladder and said: "This is a fabulous opening for me to increase my personal development as a young professional trying to break into the competitive football industry and I would like to thank Ashton United for the opportunity.

"Ashton United is a very well-respected club within Non-League football, which is run extremely well and always provides an inviting atmosphere, allowing everyone to work efficiently and effectively. So it's a very exciting time for me, as well as the club, and I look forward to continuing to work with everyone involved, especially Andy Finnigan, who I will learn a vast amount from. I can't wait to begin."