Ex-Southport manager Paul Carden beats 50 applicants to be named Warrington Town boss

FORMER Southport boss Paul Carden has beaten out 50 other applicants to be named as Warrington Town’s new manager.

Carden has been chosen as the man to succeed managerial duo Stuart Mellish and Lee Smith who left the Yellows by mutual consent last weekend following the defeat to Workington.

The 37-year-old took charge of Southport in January 2015 and kept the club in the National League before departing last November.

He teamed up with Gary Brabin again at Tranmere Rovers in July, being named assistant manager before stepping up take temporary charge following Brabin’s exit last month.

Carden, who will be joined by ex-Burscough boss Mark Beesley as first team coach, takes charge of a Warrington side currently sitting sixth in the Evo-Stik NPL Premier although they have played more games than most of their rivals.

The new boss says there is little room for error if the Yellows want to make it into the play-offs following their Evo-Stik NPL North title win last term.

Carden told the club’s website: “I’m excited to build on something very special at Warrington.

“I already know quite a few of the lads including Kinsella, Deegan and Ventre and believe they can step up to the next level. But we have quite a few out injured or carrying injuries so I will be looking to strengthen the squad.

“Historically the team that finishes fifth loses 12 games and we have already lost eight. But we have not had many draws so if we can put a good run together it is still possible.”

Chairman Toby Macormac, who received over 50 applications for the post, added: “I am very pleased with these appointments.

“They give us experience from our current level right up to Conference National and we still have the assistant to add which will be announced in a press release on Monday morning adding further strength to the appointed team.

“Paul is vastly experienced and has the right pedigree to take the club forward while Mark also has great experience. Paul and Mark are of similar ages with same beliefs and will become a solid team to take us forward.”