Michael Clegg appointed new Macclesfield boss

The Silkmen have wasted no time in replacing Alex Bruce, who left the club on Wednesday to join Karl Robinson's backroom team at League Two side Salford City.

Clegg, who only signed a new two-year deal with Rylands earlier this month, leaves his former club joint-second in the Northern Premier League table and firmly in the hunt for promotion.

Clegg spent just over a year with the Blues, turning the club into promotion contenders after previously enjoying managerial spells at Ashton United and Atherton Collieries - helping the latter to three promotions during his five years in charge.

He has signed an initial 18-month deal with Macclesfield, with his first home game in charge coming against fellow promotion contenders Marine on March 2.

Macclesfield are also the only Northern Premier League side remaining in the FA Trophy, with the Silkmen set to welcome Coalville Town to the Leasing.com Stadium next month.

On Clegg's arrival, director of football Robbie Savage said: “Firstly, I would like to wish Alex Bruce, Phil Bardsley and all his staff all the best. I would like to wish Alex success in his new role at Salford City, and whilst we are disappointed at the timing of the decision, we wish him well in his future coaching career.

“We are delighted to appoint Michael Clegg and his backroom staff to Macclesfield Football Club. Michael has many years of experience, having managed nearly 500 games at this level of football.

“We believe that this is the right time to offer Michael the chance to manage at one of the biggest clubs in non-league, with the objectives being clear in trying to get out of the league and a potential trip to Wembley.”

Chairman Rob Smethurst added: “We are delighted to welcome Michael Clegg as the new first team manager of Macclesfield Football Club.

“It is an amazing opportunity for Michael to take us on the next step of our journey as a football club, and we are excited for the future.”

Clegg took charge of 46 games during his time at Rylands, picking up 22 wins.

His departure comes as another hammer blow to the Blues, who lost top scorer Adama Sidibeh to Scottish Premiership side St Johnstone during the January transfer window.

Taking to social media following his appointment as Macclesfield boss, Clegg said: "We understand what the club means to the fans. We also understand what is required, and we will do everything we can to make that happen.

"I appreciate all the messages, it really does mean a lot. I am really happy to be here."

Photo credit: Warrington Rylands