CHESTER FC have announced they have sacked co-managers Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley, following a disappointing run of form this season.

The co-managers, who were appointed in May 2018 following the club's relegation from the National League, had seen the Blues put in a play-off charge in the curtailed 2019-20 season and were lying third in the table when the 2020-21 campaign was abruptly abandoned due to the ongoing Covid pandemic.

But this season has seen the club have a more inconsistent run, with Chester FC currently 16th in the table following a dismal 1-0 home loss to fellow strugglers Guiseley on Tuesday night, and a humiliating 4-0 home loss in the FA Cup to minnows Marske United.

The club has today (Wednesday, November 24) announced it has parted company with the two managers, with defender Danny Livesey taking charge of managerial duties ahead of Saturday's FA Trophy game at Curzon Ashton.

The club issued a statement which reads:

"Chester Football Club can confirm that the club has parted company with co-managers Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley.

"Having been appointed in May 2018, Anthony and Bernard depart the Deva Stadium after three-and-a-half-years in charge and with our very best wishes.

"We want to place on record our appreciation for their significant contribution on and off the field in that time, and for immersing themselves in our unique football club.

"The pair arrived following relegation from the National League in 2017/18 and worked tirelessly to rebuild the team while also helping to re-energise our fan base.

"They guided the Blues to a 9th place finish in their first campaign, just three points off the National League North play-off places.

"In 2019/20 the Blues finished 6th on points-per-game after the season was curtailed and were edged out in a play-off eliminator at Altrincham, and last season sat third in the table before the season was declared null and void in January.

"Unfortunately results and performances this season have not met expectations and we feel now is the right time to make a change to give us the best possible chance of improving our league position.

"Danny Livesey, who is a UEFA B licenced coach, will take charge of the team for our upcoming fixtures and our collective focus now is on preparing for Saturday's FA Trophy tie at Curzon Ashton.

"The club will provide a further update to supporters in due course."