Ashton United joint-bosses Steve Halford and Paul Phillips take charge at Stalybridge Celtic

Pics: Ashton United FC

ASHTON UNITED joint-managers Steve Halford and Paul Phillips have been confirmed as Liam Watson’s replacements at Stalybridge Celtic.

Watson quit the club earlier this week and chairman Rob Gorski has moved quickly to bring in Halford and Phillips from Evo-Stik NPL Premier outfit Ashton.

Phillips took over at Ashton in the summer of 2013 and brought Halford on board to be his joint-manager with the pair enjoying great success since.

The Robins have finished in a play-off place in each of the last three seasons but have not been able to get over the line to win promotion to the National League North.

Despite that, Halford and Phillips will be managing at Step 2 after agreeing to replace Watson at Stalybridge.

Celtic finished 12th last season but have started the new campaign slowly and are currently 20th after just one win from their opening seven league games.

Their new managerial duo will take over after Saturday’s games and Celtic chief Gorski said: “The club received high quality offers from as far apart as the USA and Italy with also many high quality local names too.

“But Steve and Phillo stood out and their hunger, passion and professionalism meant that the whole board was unanimous in wanting them to join.

“We also welcome Dave Noble and Phil Sherwood who will be our new coaches and scouts. The four of them have been a very successful unit at Ashton United and we are delighted that they have signed.”

Ashton chairman Terry Hollis added: “On behalf of the directors and fans of Ashton United I would like to sincerely thank Steve and Paul for their time at Hurst Cross and wish them both the very best of luck at their new club.

“They have done a fantastic job for us over the past three seasons, the best we have had for many a year, and a period that has helped put Ashton United firmly on the Non-League map.

“It has been a real pleasure to work with both lads and they will always be welcomed with open arms at Ashton United.”