Chester City FC: Blues legends throw their support behind CFU’s phoenix club plan

Feb 25 2010 by Dorothy King, Chester Chronicle

CITY Fans United have received backing from several high-profile former Blues players as they fight to secure the future of professional football in the city. These messages of support were read out at last Thursday’s CFU meeting:

“My support goes to everyone at CFU aiming to keep football alive in Chester. I’ve played for some big clubs, and Chester were certainly lower profile than most, but I can say that the time I spent there was among the best I had in football.

“The supporters were extremely friendly, and over the three years I spent at the club they provided me with tremendous support.

“It’s sad to see the demise of the club, but supporters should take note of the successful models at FC Halifax who are now enjoying great support, with attendances more than doubled since its return, and also follow the likes of AFC Telford and FC United of Manchester in bringing football back to the community of Chester.

“It will be hard work, but I’m sure you’re all prepared to go through that to bring the city a football club it once again deserves.”

– Peter Jackson

“Out of the ashes will rise a new giant and it will be feared by all.

“Once again the love of the people will make Chester a great football club with players who are proud to wear the shirt just like I was. Go for it, keep the dream alive.”

– Elfed Morris

“After leaving such a massive club like Everton and to not know what to expect when joining Chester, it could have been a hard task to handle, but in fact was one of the easiest.

“The warmth that still surrounds the club, its staff, and its unbelievable fans is immense. I have witnessed the highs and lows with Chester but I don’t think anything as low as this, but with driven people like yourselves and the tremendous supporters this will be a piece of cake.

“I wish you all the very best of luck and if I can be of any help just pick up the phone, especially if the manager’s job is available! Good luck.”

– Iain Jenkins

“Very sad day if it happens (Chester go out of the Conference). From the excitement and hope of a great future in the 90s with a brand new stadium to the thought of not even existing is a gut wrench to any player who was there. The fans deserve better. Good luck.”

– Eddie Bishop

“So sorry about what’s happening, but maybe in the long run it’s for the best. If you all stick together things will turn round, I’m sure. You’ll always have my support.”

– Stuart Rimmer

“Just a quick message to wish the fans all the best. As I’ve said before, if there is ever anything I can do to help the fans don’t hesitate to contact me.”

– Paul Carden

“Best wishes for the future. I enjoyed my time at the club, and will never forget the Wrexham game or the great fans that made my four seasons there.”

– Andy Milner

“Fingers crossed for the fans. The last four or five years have been a nightmare.”

– Brian Croft

“Good luck and I hope everything works out as well as possible for the fans.”

– Darryn Stamp

“Hope everything goes the way you want it to. All the very best.”

– Bob Delgado