Chester hand manager Davies a two-year contract

Apr 23 2008 by Staff Copytaker, Liverpool Daily Post

SIMON DAVIES was last night handed the “best birthday present” he could have asked for, when he was appointed as Chester City’s team manager for the next two years.

Davies, who celebrates his 34th birthday today, took over the managerial reins at the Deva Stadium last month following the dismissal of Bobby Williamson. Initially, Davies was given the job until the end of the season, but that contract has now been extended until June 2010.

The ex-Manchester United and Crewe Alexandra player, who was formerly City’s youth coach, was naturally thrilled when informed of the news by Chester’s owner Stephen Vaughan.

“I’m extremely pleased, it is the best birthday present I could have wished for. Mr Vaughan has put his faith in me and backed me, I must now ensure that I repay him with positive results.

“There are a lot of positive people in the Deva Stadium dressing room and around the club, and thankfully we are now all pulling in one direction.”

The question of an assistant manager is now high on Davies thought process: “I have a couple of people in mind, one who could oversee the youth activities at the club, and another who could come in as my assistant. Both are excellent coaches and have experience at this level.

“I am working on playing additions for next season, but firstly we must ensure that our Football League place is maintained.”

City’s next match is against Shrewsbury Town in an all ticket game at the New Meadow on Saturday. Kevin Ellison and Ritchie Partridge will step up their training tomorrow and both players have good chances of being fit for the game.

Chester’s reserve side play the final match of their season today, when they host Rochdale in a Pontin’s League fixture.