Pic: David Simpson
TOM SHAW will become Chester‘s new assistant manager as well as continuing to turn out for the Blues after extending his playing contract.
The midfielder was recently voted the Football Writers Player of the Season for his National League performances before putting pen to paper on a new deal.
As well as continuing to pull on the Chester shirt, he will also be taking on a big role off the pitch by assisting manager Jon McCarthy.
Chris Iwelumo, who served as McCarthy’s assistant last season, has been asked to stay on as strikers’ coach which would allow him to better juggle his media commitments.
A Chester statement read: “As part of a significant review of operations at Chester Football Club, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Tom Shaw as assistant manager for the 2017-18 season.
“Tom, who has also extended his playing contract at the club, will assist Jon McCarthy as part of a reshaped backroom team.
“In a detailed review of last season the club will leave no stone unturned in looking at where we can progress and how we can become more competitive.”
McCarthy has also started signing players up for next season, confirming the addition of striker Harry White who joins from National League rivals Solihull Moors.
The forward scored 12 times for his hometown club in their debut season in Non-League‘s top flight, including netting in both games against Chester.
The Blues, who ended up finishing 19th, have extended defender Ryan Astles’ deal after the big centre-half played all 46 National League games last term.
Young striker James Akintunde, 21, has put pen to paper for next season while winger Craig Mahon has signed a new two-year deal. Jordan Chapell and Liam Davies have also agreed to stay on.
Highly-rated defender Sam Hughes and striker James Alabi have been offered new contracts at the Deva Stadium but both are exploring their options.
Former Wrexham trio winger Elliott Durrell and defenders Blaine Hudson and Johnny Hunt have been released, meanwhile, alongside defenders Ross Killock and Kieran Evans and striker Kane Richards.
