Prestwich Heys have appointed Russ Saunders and Matty Russell as their new joint- management team.

Saunders needs no introduction to Heys fans having made 121 appearances between the sticks for the club in which he has ensured a place for himself in club folklore with that famous last gasp save that secured Heys the NW Counties First Division Trophy in 2018.

He will now be looking to make new memories with Russell from the dugout. The duo have played together in the past, most notably at Glossop North End. Russell has also served at Curzon Ashton, Mossley and Runcorn Linnets as well as playing in the League of Wales for Colwyn Bay and Flint Town.

In making the appointment Heys chairman, Jon Lyons said: “We had a great deal of interest in the job with some great candidates. Ultimately though I wanted to bring someone in who knows the club, particularly so with the upheaval of recent months, and so help bring some stability whilst taking the club forward.

“ I am excited about this new chapter at the club, ⁠both Russ and Matty have plenty of experience playing at this level and above. Hopefully, they can keep most of this season’s squad together and continue to take the club forward. I am really looking forward to working with them both.”

On his appointment Saunders said: “I am really honoured to be trusted by Joffy (Jon Lyons) to take this role. I really feel like Heys is my club. I have loved being a part of it as a player over the last five years and I now really look forward to this new role alongside Matty and working with Joffy.

“The three of us share the same vision for the club in the long term and hopefully we can achieve success together.

“Over the past five years I have been a part of the clubs progress up the non-league pyramid and the aim now, for Matty and I, will be to continue that upwards trajectory and bring success to the club and the fans”.

Russell added: “First of all, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the chairman for entrusting myself and Russ with this incredible opportunity to lead Prestwich Heys.

“ I am truly honoured and excited to take on this role. The focus will be on cultivating team unity and playing an exciting brand of football.

“The aim is to build a squad that is both competitive and entertaining to watch, with a strong hardworking team ethos. I started my career at Manchester City and have played at the top levels of the non-League pyramid which has given me great experience and insights into the game.

“Stepping into this managerial role, I aim to leverage this experience to drive success. To the fans, Russ and I will work tirelessly to achieve our goals, playing with passion and determination.

“I am confident we can create something special and bring success to this club. I hope you will join us on this exciting journey ahead.”