STEVE Ashton believes manager Neil Young has done a ‘phenomenal’ job in guiding Chester FC to within three victories of the title.

The Blues boss has come in for criticism from a small minority of supporters in recent weeks after his side allowed Skelmersdale United back into the championship race.

But chief executive Ashton believes without Young’s dedication, commitment and desire the reborn club would be not be so close to glory in its first full season.

Ashton said: “FC Halifax Town in their first season only finished eighth in the same division, whereas we have virtually achieved second place and are in the driving seat for first place and winning the title.

“Neil has put so much effort in behind the scenes that people don’t always see.

“For example on Tuesday he finished work for the day – his full-time job – then drove to watch Bamber Bridge play Garforth Town as they are two of our remaining three opponents.

“On Wednesday night he held a training session and on Thursday he will hold another. The amount of work and effort he puts in as manager of this club is phenomenal.

“In many ways the success that has occurred off the pitch is a direct result of the exciting and successful season we’ve had so far on it.

“We’ve scored over 100 goals and we’re on target for 100 points. The dream is still alive – we can take this title.”

Young, a manager for Merseyrail and a married father of two young girls, has admitted expectation is weighing heavily on his shoulders.

But Ashton is adamant that whatever happens in the final week of the season, Young can be proud of his efforts.

Ashton said: “I know Neil has gone on record to say that as the club is so well run off the pitch, he doesn’t want to let the club down on his side of the bargain.

“Well, he hasn’t let us down. He has led us to first place and the performance on the pitch has assisted in making everything off it so good, which has allowed the club to lay very exciting plans for the future.”