1874 NORTHWICH’S search for a new manager is now at an end.

The club have confirmed the appointment of Damian Crossley as their new boss, with the incoming manager tasked with steering them clear of the relegation zone.

His appointment sees him replace previous co-managers Paul Bowyer and Wayne Goodison, who resigned from their roles last month with senior players Matt Woolley and Mark Jones having taken charge of the past three matches.

The 48-year-old has had extensive coaching experience within the Northern Premier League, with his most recent post being as first-team coach at Premier Division high-flyers Warrington Rylands.

He has also formed part of coaching teams at Buxton, Curzon Ashton and Colne under the guidance of Steve Cunningham.

Crossley arrives at Townfield with ’74 struggling at the wrong end of the NPL West Division table – they have lost their last five league matches and sit third from bottom, two points clear of the relegation zone.

His first game in charge is a huge trip to bottom side Hednesford Town on Saturday.

“It is a pleasure to welcome Damian to 1874 Northwich FC,” chairman Stephen Richardson said.

“We felt that his ambition to succeed, aligned with undoubted experience and understanding of the ethos and values of 1874 Northwich FC complimented his appointment.

“As a board and a club, we look forward to working closely with Damian in the future.

“The club would like to place on record our appreciation and thanks to the considerable number of applicants for the position of manager, and to our senior players Matt Woolley and Mark Jones who have guided the team superbly during this transitional period.”