A statement from the club`s website reads: "Following the departure of Dave Dale for personal reasons some three weeks ago, Eccleshall have been actively looking for a replacement to take up the management role at the club. First team coach Jake Robinson had indicated that he would not be putting his name forward for the post but was happy to act on an interim basis until a new manager was appointed.

“After considering a number of applications, many from out of the area, the club have now appointed Liam Kelly as their new manager.

“Liam is known to the Eagles as he had a short six-month spell as interim manager at Pershall Park three years ago with the club at the bottom of the table. In that spell, he managed to lead the team to a mid-table position in the NWCL Division One by the end of the season. He has since gained more managerial experience in the Staffordshire County Senior League, most recently with Abbey Hulton United and was keen to test himself at a higher level again.

“Liam will be bringing his own backroom team with him to Eccleshall but existing coaches Jake Robinson and Harry Pickering will be remaining at Pershall Park. He met the squad last night at training and will be in the dugout on Saturday when Eagles travel to take on second placed New Mills at Church Lane.

“Whilst acknowledging the tough start, he is looking forward to the challenge and hopes to be leading the team up the league as the season progresses.  Everyone at Pershall Park welcomes him to the club and wishes him well in his new role".