Tributes have been paid following the death of former Chasetown FC manager Paul Darby.
He first led The Scholars for a short spell from August to November 1986 before leaving to join Wolverhampton Wanderers as first team physio.
Darby then returned for second three month stay in 2002 before work commitments forced him to depart.
Ex-Chasetown striker and manager Charlie Blakemore was among those to pay tribute.
“Paul had a big influence on my early football years. Firstly, he was the coach of Shropshire under 18 team and he picked me up from trials and made me captain of the county.
“I then signed for him when he was manager of Shifnal. When Shifnal lost their ground he moved to Chasetown and that was the first time I had even heard of the club.
“At the age of 18 – I then signed for Chasetown and it has been the club that has been in my heart ever since.
“Paul also convinced me to take my coaching badges at the age of 20 when I was injured. He moved to Wolves as academy director and physio and I went on to coach at the Wolves academy for six years including managing the Wolves under 16 teams for three years while playing for Chasetown.
“With hindsight, this was a fantastic experience – working with coaches at an elite level and stood me in good stead for when I later went on to manage Chasetown.
“Paul always encouraged me as a player and a coach and played a massive part in my development in both areas and I always thanked him and will remember him for that.
“I was gutted to hear the news and we will always remember him fondly – he was a really good man.”
Charlie Blakemore
Mick Joiner, who appointed Darby for his two spells in charge, said:
“I had many hours discussing football with him and listening to his views on our great game.
“We pass on our wishes at this sad time to both family and friends.”
Mick Joiner
