Chester FC have announced closer ties with the University of Chester that will see the Blues training on the Parkgate Road campus.

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From this week, the first team squad will have access to the 3G pitch for training and other facilities to help them prepare for matches.

Manager Steve Burr and first team coach Jon McCarthy took charge of this morning's session following the thrilling 2-1 win over bitter rivals Wrexham on Monday .

Burr said:  “I’m delighted we are linking up with the university and it gives us another venue to train and develop our match day preparation.

"The university are a key part of this town and we only see this going from strength to strength.”

Chester will continue to use the 'Field of Dreams' facility belonging to main sponsors MBNA and the Total Fitness gymnasium on Liverpool Road.

As part of the extended partnership, the Blues will be providing coaching and support to the university's football teams and looking into how students can become involved with the club.

Gordon Rae, performance and coaching manager for University of Chester said: “I am delighted to extend our partnership with Chester FC and the benefits to both the club and the university in terms of access to facilities, coaching and support.

“The university is keen to build relationships with local clubs and none come bigger than Chester FC.

"We hope that this partnership can help elevate Chester FC in their assault in the league over the next few years.

“The university is also looking forward to expert coaching from Chester FC to our own footballers which will hopefully produce a footballer who can go on to make the first team at Chester FC.”