Chris Iwelumo believes that Chester FC can achieve something special this season.
The former Scotland international was appointed as assistant manager to boss Jon McCarthy on Tuesday, filling the void left by Ian Sharps’ departure to League One Walsall last month.
The 38-year-old, who played 10 games for Chester at the start of the 2014/2015 season, was on the touchline for the 3-0 home win over North Ferriby United on Tuesday evening as the Blues moved up to eighth in the league.
And former Burnley, Stoke City, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Watford striker Iwelumo says he has seen enough already to think that this seaosn could end up being one to remember for Chester fans.
“I think it is very unique what the gaffer is doing here,” said Iwelumo, who will have to juggle his role with a burgeoning media career. “With the resources and the funding it has been outstanding.
“As soon as I got the call from the gaffer it was something that interested me.
“I came down to watch the boys play against Southport. They were excellent in spells but game management was their flaw.
“But you learn from these things and they went to Eastleigh and their game management was spot on.
“Obviously I have an affiliation with Chester Football Club anyway and how things are getting run here and being handled, it is a fantastic club to be a part of. It has potential to kick on from here and everyone is pulling in the right direction. I’m here to try and add to that.”
Chester boss McCarthy has worked wonders on a shoestring budget at the Blues and has been vindicated in his decision to keep faith with the squad he put together at the start of the season.
The togetherness among the group is now paying dividends and Iwelumo believes that squad have the belief that they can go on and make their mark this season.
And with Chester closing the gap on the play-off places, expectations have been raised.
“The gaffer is quietly confident that we can go on and achieve something, the players are quietly confident, but they are setting the standards that show that we can do that as well,” said Iwelumo, who beat off competition from coaches who have had Football League managerial experience.
“There is a quiet belief in the squad that this year they can go on and achieve something very, very special. That is what we are telling them. I’m delighted to be here.
“We are scoring goals and creating chances and playing some excellent stuff. Long may that continue.”
Chester make the trip to Yorkshire on Saturday for a clash with Guiseley at Nethermoor (3pm).
