Chris Willcock earned promotion after all and will experience the NPL Premier Division next season.
He missed winning the title for Workington when Reds could only draw at bottom side Market Drayton and then saw his side beaten by Marine in the play-off semi-final.
But Willcock has today been unveiled as first team manager Stalybridge Celtic who had a disappointing season in the Premier Division.
Chairman Rob Gorski told the Celtic website: “We had nearly 30 applications, from ex-Premier League players to applications from New Zealand, however Chris’s attitude really impressed and we are really excited that he is joining.
“He has a tremendous record of challenging at the top end of the table with pretty much every club he has managed. He is local, has a clear plan and his determination to succeed was clear.”
After being named as the new manager Willcock said: “I am delighted to accept this opportunity at my hometown club and I am looking forward to the challenge ahead at Stalybridge Celtic, a club with a very good history, passionate supporters and great potential.
“I want everyone to pull together and get this club back up the league.
“The club and myself have an exciting vision over the coming years and I am honoured to have been chosen to bring the good times back to the club.”
Willcock’s contract with the Reds was not renewed and since then the Borough Park club have re-appointed Danny Grainger as manager.
