FORMER Tottenham star Pascal Chimbonda has been appointed manager of ninth-tier Skelmersdale United.
It is the Frenchman’s first foray into management after retiring from playing in 2019.
Chimbonda, 44, says he has been inspired by the likes of Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho, stating his desire to play attractive football.
The former defender revealed he is honoured to take charge of Skelmersdale, but he faces a difficult job with the club bottom of the North West Counties Premier Divison.
Previous Blueboys boss Matt Potter left Skelmersdale after picking up just one win in their opening 16 games, leaving the club ten points off safety.
Upon taking charge, Chimbonda said: “It is a great honour to become manager of a club with a history as rich as that of Skelmersdale United Football Club.
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“This is a very proud day for me and also a wonderful opportunity, and I am very eager to get onto the training ground to start working with the players.
“I will be focusing on greater fitness which will match the intensity I expect of all the players.
“I’ve been inspired by Guardiola, Mourinho, Simeone and Zidane, and as such just like those great managers, my philosophy will be to play attractive football.
“I know how precious this club is to the supporters, and therefore we’re ready to work hard to give them what they want.”
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Chimbonda made 149 Premier League appearances for Spurs, Wigan, Sunderland, Blackburn – but he also has non-league experience.
The former France international has even played in the North West Counties League, making four appearances for Ashton Town in Division One North in the twilight of his career.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
