Robbie recently retired from playing due to persistent injuries that have plagued him throughout the last couple of years. However, manager Danny Johnson was delighted to announce that Robbie had agreed to join him and confirmed Robbie had been his number one target.

‘Following the victory against AFC Fylde a couple of weeks ago I sat down and drew up a shortlist of people I felt would be suitable for the role. Robbie was at the top of that shortlist and once he expressed an interest we sat down, had a chat and the decision was made. Robbie has played under some excellent managers such as Nigel Clough and Jim Harvey so I am sure he will be bringing a few of their thoughts and ideas and also a few of his own. I am really excited at finally confirming Robbie as my new Assistant and I can’t wait for him to join me in the dugout for the game against Buxton on New Years Day’.

‘Robbie was a top non league centre forward and scored goals at every club he played for, including a few for us. He is a great lad and I am really looking forward to working with him. Robbie will be the first to admit that his time as a player at the club didn’t work out as we both would have liked but after speaking with him on a number of occasions he is determined to make a real impact as part of my management team’.

‘Robbie’s specialism is obviously sticking the ball into the back of the net so I can see him spending quite a bit of time on the training ground with the likes of Gareth Richards, Callum Flanagan, Ryan Moore and Matt Landregan. Robbie is an excellent coach and has a great understanding for the game at this level and above. He will bring some fresh enthusiasm and ideas to the table and I am sure everyone will benefit from his involvement’.

‘This is a great appointment for Ashton United Football Club and I am sure everyone will join me in welcoming Robbie back to the club and wish him all the very best in his new role’.