AFC Fylde are delighted to announce the appointment of Graham Barrow as Head of Football Development.

Vastly experienced in the football industry having managed and coached from Premier League down to National League level, Barrow will oversee recruitment and scouting for the club whilst advising on training and player development.

Barrow joins the club after 10 years as first team coach with Wigan Athletic where he worked in the top flight under current Belgium national team manager Martinez.

Barrow said: “Fylde have a firm ambition to reach the Football League and believe my experience and contacts will help them to realise that dream.

“I have worked with several top managers in the past, from Kevin Keegan and Kenny Jacket to Roberto Martinez and Uwe Rosler.

“I have known the management team here, Dave and Colin, for a long time and we have kept in touch over the years. I played alongside Colin with Chester and actually signed Dave whilst I was the manager of Bury.

“I’ve always kept an eye on Dave’s managerial career and I was even a reference on his CV when he got the job here so I like to think I played little a part!”

Barrow, who started his playing career with Altrincham – twice winning the National League – is relishing his new challenge with the Coasters. 

“Fylde have come on in leaps and bounds and with the January transfer window coming up, they were keen to expand further.

“I have watched the team train and they are a good group of lads. After a long time on the managerial and training side of the game I was ready for a new challenge. 

“This way I can help the management team with my experience and advise. 

“Everybody here is desperate to reach the Football League and hopefully I can help that happen.”

Manager Dave Challinor added: “Graham has extensive experience in the game and will be a valuable addition to the team.

“He was key as we prepared for the huge games against Wigan recently and I’m sure he will continue to be so.”