John Disney is determined to put his chequered past with Chester FC fans behind him and win them over with his performances on the pitch.
Disney, 22, had an online spat with a small number of Blues fans when he was playing for Northwich Victoria following a clash with ex-Chester midfielder Michael Powell in December 2011, which resulted in Powell being shown a red card.
Powell was given his marching orders following an alleged elbow on Disney, with the defender becoming embroiled in a war of words on Twitter with some fans following the game.
But right-back Disney, who joined Steve Burr’s Chester revolution at the beginning of the summer from Hednesford Town, says he has learned his lesson and wants to shine for his new club.
“I was 18 or 19 at the time and you get on your social media networks and you shouldn’t really do it, and it was something I regret doing,” said Disney, a former Republic of Ireland under 17 international.
“But if someone were to elbow me here when I’m wearing a Chester shirt then I would probably do the same thing.
“There are no ill feelings between me and Powelly and I’ve got to know him quite well since the incident. The whole thing is behind me now and I'm looking forward to playing my part for Chester.
“The fans are brilliant and they have been absolutely great with me so far. They’re a lovely bunch and you can see what the club means to them, more so here than at other clubs because it’s fan owned.
“To get 1,000 people coming out for a pre-season friendly; I mean, you can’t turn your nose up at that.”
Disney, who arrived at the Blues from the Pitmen with winger Wayne Riley, also played with defender Matty Brown at Stockport County and believes that the quality of manager Burr’s squad this season will lead them to a solid campaign.
“There has been a big turnover of players here but they are all a top bunch of lads and everyone has been fantastic,” said Disney, who can play in either full-back position.
“I was with Wayne at Northwich Vics and Hednesford and I played with Matty Brown at Stockport, so I know a few of them already and know what quality players they are.
“I think we’ll do well. It’s my first time in the Conference but I’ve played Conference teams in the FA Trophy and the cups.
“The lads like to get the ball down and play and we are going to try and play football the right way. That’s what the gaffer wants us to do.
“On a personal level, I just want to keep on improving and develop myself now I’m at a full-time club. I like to get forward and score some goals when I can as well.
“I just want to do my bit and try and help this club progress. This is a club that deserves to be back in the Football League.”
