AFC Fylde players boosted by manager's successful surgery

Second-placed Fylde head to Hereford in National League North buoyed by the knowledge that the boss is back home and recovering well after his bypass operation 10 days ago.

Chadwick said: “I’m speaking to Jim every day, and he’s watching a lot of video footage and is raring to go.

“We’re holding daily meetings, having good conversations and he’s in touch with the players.

“It’s a huge boost to everyone and we all value his input, even though he’s not back in the front line at Mill Farm.”

The squad have had a full week’s training after some time off last week and are ready to face a struggling Hereford side, who stand just a point above the bottom two.

Chadwick added: “We’ve had a good week and it’s good to be back. David Perkins is available after suspension and the players with niggles have had a chance to make progress, though it looks like Nick Haughton could be out longer-term.

“Hereford only played on Tuesday and we’re hoping the longer break we’ve had (11 days)will work in our favour.

“There’s were six goals in our last game and eight in Hereford’s at Chester this week, so it could be another open game.”

Fylde chairman David Haythornthwaite this week suggested the club had been shocked by the quality of National League North after relegation, and Chadwick admits to being taken by surprise by the way rival teams have upped the ante against the Coasters.

He said: “The chairman has been here a number of years and knows this level from the last time Fylde were here.

“We are seen as a scalp and we have been surprised at just how much teams have raised their game.

“There’s no doubt there are quality players in this division. I think the pandemic has affected the market and a lot of former Football League players have dropped into this league.

“Some players who had been holding out for a higher level have found themselves in our competition.”

Fylde head south for what is their last league game before Christmas, though they visit Curzon Ashton in the FA Trophy second round on Tuesday, possibly followed by another away tie at Evesham United or Boston United the following Saturday.

Fylde won’t be short of motivation at Curzon, the only ground where they have lost a league game so far this season.

“We won’t look too far ahead but it’s a tie we’re really looking forward to,” added Chadwick.

“We actually played really well there despite losing 2-0. Things went against us but we’re delighted to go back. It’s another tactical challenge for us to look forward to.”

Fylde lifted the FA Trophy at Wembley in May last year and no other club has got its hands on the silverware since – last season’s final between Harrogate Town and Concord Rangers is yet to be played.

“I’m not sure if we’re technically still the holders or whether the cup is still here,” said Chadwick. “I’ve certainly never seen it!”

But first Fylde will be hoping for a favour from Trophy opponents Curzon Ashton, who face league leaders Gloucester City tomorrow.

Fylde Women return to action after lockdown on Sunday, hoping to maintain their outstanding start to the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division season against Sheffield at Kellamergh Park.

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