John Danby understands better than most how Chester FC has changed over the past few seasons.
The 30-year-old goalkeeper holds the distinction of being the only player to pass the 100-game for mark for both Chester FC and Chester City, reaching his century for the reformed club in the 2-1 win over Hyde.
He followed that up with a man of the match display in the 2-2 draw at Hereford, despite only playing following a late fitness test.
Originally from Staffordshire, the stopper has made his home in Chester and said the Blues were a special club.
Danby first arrived from Kidderminster Harriers in May 2006 and remained right up to the sorry end in March 2010.
He returned in June 2011 and, asked how things have changed, replied: “Everything is different.
“The success the club has had over the last three years is incredible and has probably been a bit of shock to the system.
“When I was here last time we were on minus points, we weren’t getting paid and it wasn’t a nice place to be.
“Looking back, it was probably the best thing that could have happened.
“Now the fans are running the club and the whole place is different and people are smiling, even though we have had a tough start.”
Danby has now made 234 appearances for the Blues and, despite having a few bumps and bruises, hopes to take his total to 235 against Luton Town on Saturday.
He said: “I have taken a few knocks in recent weeks and I think it might be age catching up with me.
“I had a fitness test before the Hereford game and came through that.”
Having been passed fit to play, Danby produced his best performance of the season as the Blues survived a second-half onslaught from the Bulls.
“Hereford are a big side with some big, strong lads but we restricted them and they did not really open us up,” he said.
Chester have lost only once in seven league games and Danby believes there is more to come as the team continues to grow in confidence.
“We have put in some good performances over the past few weeks,” he said.
“The whole team has improved and this league throws up a lot surprises so we are all looking forward to the game against Luton Town.”
