EXCLUSIVE | Tom Shaw speaks following Blues departure

Over 100 appearances for the Club, he’s worn the armband, he’s been Assistant Manager and Caretaker Manager. He was decent in midfield too!

Tom Shaw is held in high regard at Chester FC, and here is what he had to say following his departure:

Firstly I’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone at Chester FC.

There’s a hell of a lot of people to thank and I’ve called them all individually. The Club have been absolutely terrific with me – but also my family as well; especially when my daughter was the mascot. I’ve met some great friends and great people at this football club.

The manager spoke to me on Tuesday and said that Tamworth had approached him – the Manager was very fair and gave me the opportunity to speak to them. He was completely understanding of my situation – with me being full-time at Nottingham Trent as Head of Football.

Marcus gave me the chance to speak to them – and being honest the contract I was offered was perfect for me; I simply couldn’t turn it down. It gives me security.

I wanted to be here until the end of the season. In an ideal world that would have been nice, to help keep Chester in the National League – but as a father and husband there’s a bigger picture now for me. It’s not so much a footballing decision – this is about my family and security.

All I can say is that this has been the most enjoyable period of my entire career. I’ve had a lot of clubs but this is like a second home to me. It’s with a heavy heart I make this decision.

I really enjoyed playing – and coaching – under Jon McCarthy and also under Marcus Bignot.

Marcus is someone who is going to give it everything to steer this club to safety. You are in good hands.

All the best,

Tom