Willcock returns as new Ducks boss

Willcock, pictured, was named on Monday as the successor to Paul Quinn after the former Brighouse Town boss was sacked on Saturday night only hours after his side's fourth defeat on the spin, a 2-0 defeat at home to Nantwich Town.

Former Mossley, Rossendale and Salford City boss Willcock will be assisted at Sheerien Park by Lee Donafee, his former number two at the Hillmen during the most successful period of the EVO-STIK League North club's history. Together, they guided the Hillmen to the final of the FA Vase and promotion to the Northern Premier League during four years at the helm before stepping down at the end of last season.

The EVO-STIK League Premier Division's Ducks told fans they were delighted to appoint the duo in time to take charge of the sixth-placed club's crucial top flight trip to leaders Altrincham on Tuesday night.

Shaw Lane chairman Craig Wood said: "We are delighted to have Chris and Lee on board. Chris knows our club and has watched us this season on numerous occasions. He has also worked with a number of our existing squad and it means he has a better chance of hitting the ground running as the hectic schedule of fixture continues."

Willcock said: "It's a unique opportunity with the current league position the team is in and my aim is to quickly turn results around and finish the season strongly, putting pressure on the teams above us. I'm inheriting a group of very good players, which I'm looking forward to working with. I'm fully aware of the clubs ambitions and the challenge that has been given to me by the Chairman and the club."

Appointed in November as the successor to Craig Elliott, Quinn left with the Ducks three points off the play-offs spots but with games in hand on everybody above them in the top flight table.

Images courtesy of thefa.com

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