Macken completes Colne backroom staff

Macken, 44, was appointed by the NPL West Division club following the departure of Nathan Rooney as head coach.

He has brought in Steve Atkinson as assistant manager and Josh Hull as Performance Coach and Analyst.

Atkinson told the club’s official website: “The ambition of the club was a big attraction. We are looking to build on the foundations and obviously hoping to replicate the success we had at Radcliffe.”

Atkinson worked under Macken at Radcliffe and has also been with Bury and Manchester City.

Hull has worked in Data Analysis and Strategy for 20 years and was also part of the team at Radcliffe.

He added: “It's a great opportunity for me to be working at a great club with big ambition.

“Especially great to be working with a group of players who are looking to learn and most importantly are eager to improve the team performance to the next level.”

Former England goalkeeper Chris Kirkland will remain at Colne as part of Macken’s staff, alongside Damian Sweeney, Anthony Reedy and Arshad Ranguni.

Photo: Matthew Riley