RYLANDS have appointed Darren Davies as their new manager as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Davies was assistant manager to Danny Salt last year but makes the step up to the top job after Salt’s departure.

The club have also appointed Chris Brown, who has played for the club for the past four seasons, as assistant manager.

Former Grappenhall Sports manager Davies expressed his excitement about taking Rylands forward after they finished 14th in the Cheshire Football League Premier Division.

“I’m privileged and honoured to become the first team manager of Rylands FC,” he said.

“Despite an obviously disappointing end to last season, I enjoyed my first year at the club and I’m looking forward to playing a part in helping it progress.

“This club has taken some great steps forward off the pitch in the last 18 months or so and it’s now my priority to try and match that on the pitch.

“There is a great support network around the club including a dedicated committee and sponsor that no other club at our level can currently match.

“Together, I hope we can combine and take this great football club forward.”

The club have also announced the release of tickets for the pre-season friendly against Salford City on Tuesday, July 12.

Salford, who won promotion from the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League last season and are backed by the group of ex-Manchester United players known as the ‘Class of 92’, will visit Gorsey Lane to celebrate the opening of Rylands’ new seated stand.

Tickets are available online from the club website or in person at Rylands Recreation Club and are priced at £5 adults and £2.50 concessions.