Jon McCarthy Appointed Assistant Manager

The club is delighted to announce Jon McCarthy has joined Southport FC as Assistant Manager.

Jon made over 700 career league appearances as a player, as well as 18 appearances for Northern Ireland. Jon joined the backroom staff at Chester before taking the managerial job following the dismissal of Steve Burr. He then went on to Port Vale working with Neil Aspin as fitness coach.

Jon brings a wealth of coaching and management experience at this level and above, and did an excellent job at Chester despite severe financial constraints and a policy of moving on his best players.

Jon McCarthy fills the vacant role of Assistant Manager after John Dreyer departed the club on Tuesday.

On joining the club Jon said: IIt’s an exciting project and I’m very happy to be joining Southport. I couldn’t pass on the opportunity to work with Kevin who I think is a very bright and innovative young manager. I think we’re very similar in terms of philosophy and I believe I can come in and complement his strengths. Kev has played at the very highest level, I’ve maybe had a bit more exposure to the Non-League game. It’s a no-brainer for me.

“I’m sad to leave Vale, the people there were great and that’s been a really positive experience for me. But Southport have shown real intent and belief in me, and I think I can be a real help to Kevin moving forwards.”

Kevin Davies said: “Jon will be an excellent addition to the team and we’re delighted to have him on board. He’s very keen, enthusiastic and invested in the plan we have for the team and the club.”

Speaking on John Dreyer’s departure, Davies added: “We knew from the start that John’s location may prove difficult, we’ve had discussions on that and John and I had always planned to review that at the end of the year. John’s been a big part in rebuilding the squad and we’re really grateful for all his efforts while he’s been with us.”