Former Claret Eastwood takes the reins at Little Wembley

Nelson have moved to replace Paul Fildes by appointing former Clarets striker Phil Eastwood as their new first team manager.
Phil Eastwood pictured in action for Bamber Bridge against AFC FyldePhil Eastwood pictured in action for Bamber Bridge against AFC Fylde
Phil Eastwood pictured in action for Bamber Bridge against AFC Fylde

The 38-year-old, who started his career as a professional with Burnley, takes charge at Little Wembley after the departure of Fildes, who linked up with former Blues boss Mark Fell at Ramsbottom United last week.

Whalley-born Eastwood scored the winner in the 1995 Lancashire FA Youth Cup Final against Manchester City at Maine Road, and went on to make 18 appearances for the first team, scoring once at Deepdale against Preston North End, where he later worked as technical youth development officer in the club’s centre of excellence.

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Eastwood, who has also worked for the Lancashire FA and as assistant manager of Nantwich Town, also played for Morecambe, Southport, Stalybridge Celtic, Hyde United, Ashton United, Rossendale United and Bamber Bridge.

He brings a new management team to Victoria Park, with Jerome Fitzgerald his assistant and another former Claret Gerry Harrison as first team coach.

Nelson Chief Executive Adam Keizer said: “We’ve had some really good applications for the job, but once we met with Phil it was clear he was the outstanding candidate, and so we wanted to move quickly to appoint him as new manager ahead of our original deadline.

“Phil brings an excellent management team to the club, with Jerome and Gerry joining too, and we feel they are a perfect fit for the football club.

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“As ex pros and footballers who have played at a decent level, they’ll add a professional approach to the team, and their desire to build a successful team for the long term, based around local young players, makes them the ideal appointment for Nelson Football Club.

“We’re are absolutely delighted to welcome Phil, Jerome and Gerry to the club and look forward to working with them in what is an exciting new era for Nelson FC.”

• Nelson are looking for players for their new women’s team. Keizer said “We’re really excited about having our new women’s team from next season.” For more details, contact Adam at [email protected]

• Nelson season tickets are now on early bird sale. Buy before June 18th to receive a special discounted price of £60 for Adults or £30 for concessions. And if you are a Burnley or Accrington Stanley season ticket holder you can buy a season ticket at Nelson for half price.