Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley have been appointed as Chester's new joint-managers.

The pair left Salford City last week by mutual consent, despite winning the National League North title with the Moor Lane outfit, who are owned by a group of ex-Manchester United players including Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville, and have tonight been confirmed Chester’s co-managers. Salford cited 'irreconcilable differences' for the split.

The appointment represents a major coup for Chester given the financial constraints the club are working under following a crisis-ridden six months which almost saw the club face liquidation, and culminated in their relegation from the National League last month.

The Blues had initially targeted Neil Redfearn for the role but talks broke down around 10 days ago.

Johnson, 35, and Morley, 34, had since been in talks with Chesterfield but have opted for an immediate return to football with Chester.

"We're both extremely delighted to have joined Chester FC and cannot wait to get started in the role," said Morley.

“We are an ambitious management team and whilst we know there are challenges ahead, we would not have taken the job if we didn't believe that we could get the Blues into a position of challenging for promotion."

City Fans United Chairman, David Harrington-Wright, said: "I am very pleased that Bern and Jonno want to be a part of the Chester FC journey.

"They have a well proven track record, with the National League North title last season being the latest in a line of successful campaigns, and have an excellent knowledge of football in the North West and Under 23's in particular that will definitely help next season.

“I really look forward to them helping restore the good times back at the Swansway Chester Stadium and not just for the coming season and I'm sure the fan will get right behind them."