WINSFORD United have appointed Lee Duckworth as their new manager.

The 34-year-old, who has made more than 300 appearances for the club as a player, fills a vacancy left when Rob Byrne resigned from the role last week.

Duckworth takes charge for the first time when Blues visit Barnton in the Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup quarter finals tonight, Wednesday.

“Lee lives in the town and the choice is in line with our long-term plan of creating a community club that serves the people of Winsford,” said vice-chairman David Taylor.

“We were delighted when he agreed to take the job on, more so after listening to his ideas for the future.”

Duckworth switched sides at Barton Stadium in the summer after playing close to 100 times for Blues’ tenants and North West Counties League rivals, 1874 Northwich, during a two-year spell.

“We were surprised at the high quality of applicants for the position,” said Blues in a statement.

“However we feel that to keep the basis of what we feel is a good squad together, the selection of Lee – who has been involved with the club for more than 17 years and has excellent coaching qualifications, is the right one.”

Byrne quit following a home defeat against Bootle, bringing to an end a near two-year spell in the dugout.

He said an increased workload in his day job, and juggling family commitments, had persuaded him to step down.

Byrne had taken over as manager at the start of 2014 following the departure of Eddy Haslam, to whom he had been assistant.

Winsford, in danger of being relegated at the time, recovered to finish mid-table.

They were 12th last term.

Blues are scheduled to visit Premier Division rivals Runcorn Linnets in the FA Vase on Saturday.