ANDY Preece has agreed a one-year deal to become Northwich Vics manager - with the goal of guiding the club to an immediate return to the Blue Square Premier.
The former Bury and Stockport forward has "shaken hands" on a 12-month contract with chairman Jim Rushe, and will sign on the dotted line "in the very near future".
"It was announced at a supporters’ meeting last night (Thursday)," said Rushe today, Friday. "I’m a happy man.
"Andy’s going away on Monday but he will sign a one-year deal when he gets back.
"He’s agreed terms and we’ve shaken hands, and he’s a man of his word," he added. "It’s a one-year deal with a view to a further two years. I’m looking forward to working with him."
Preece, who replaced Steve King in February, was named Blue Square Premier Manager of the Month for April after guiding Vics to six successive victories.
Vics garnered 24 points in 15 games under his leadership - more than Preece's predecessors Dino Maamria, Mike Marsh and Steve King could muster between them.
It was not enough to beat the drop, but Rushe is sure he has appointed the right man to ensure a swift return to non-league football’s top flight.
"That’s the plan, and I’m very confident Andy can do it," he said.
Former Manchester City captain Andy Morrison, currently in the Caribbean working with the Trinidad and Tobago national team, will continue as Preece’s right-hand man.
