MARK WRIGHT, manager of Nationwide Conference League leaders Chester City, is relishing the challenge that lies ahead as the Deva Stadium outfit look to consolidate their newly-acquired top spot in the months ahead.

City's 1-0 win at Morecambe on Tuesday and former league leaders Hereford United's reversal at Accrington Stanley meant Chester took over the leadership mantle for the first time this season.

"The players have worked tremendously hard to achieve our current position and now we have to work even harder to maintain this placing that we have achieved. We know we are there to be shot at by the other 21 teams in the league, but all of us relish that challenge," said the former Liverpool and England captain.

"There was criticism from certain sections of the crowd following the FA Cup defeat last weekend, and of more concerning was some unhelpful and sensationalist reporting that upset myself and the players. Reports that there has been a fall-out between the chairman and me were totally untrue, and I take exception to that.

"The chairman and I are totally at one with our ambitions and aspirations for this club, we are also extremely good friends."

Wright continued: "He would be the first to agree that he provides the money, and I bring in the players, and that partnership is working particularly well.

"If I was wrong in having a go, at certain supporters after last weekend's game, I apologise. But I select the team that goes out on the field and I am judged on the results I achieve. It was particularly galling that certain chants were for a player who wasn't even in our squad."

Wright concluded: "The players, management, staff and supporters all have one objective, and that is promotion this year, and that is why we must all pull together for the common goal.

"If a result goes the wrong way there is no one more gutted than me, but I re-emphasise everyone involved with Chester City football club has a united ambition, we must all pull together to achieve it."

* Chester midfielder Steve Brodie is poised for a loan move to Uni-Bond League leaders Droylsden. The former Swansea City player had a spell on loan at Forest Green Rovers earlier this season.