JON Macken has appointed former Chelsea defender Frank Sinclair as assistant manager.

Sinclair, who has had spells in charge of Colwyn Bay, Brackley and Hednesford in non-league football, is set to join the coaching staff today ahead of this weekend’s trip to Kendal Town.

New boss Macken believes his input will help move the club forward.

“This is a great signing,” he said. “I had a few different people in mind but after speaking with Frank it was clear he was struck by the ambition of the football club and wanted to be part of it.

“He is another experienced voice in the dressing room who will help the lads and the club to move forward.

“We have never worked together before in coaching but I have known him for a long time and we have spoken before on numerous occasions.

“We have always got along and we have similar ideas and approaches to the game. So his appointment is only going to help me, help the team and boost the reputation of this club.”

Macken is getting by with a little help from his friends.

Former Manchester United team-mates Wes Brown and Paul Rachubka made a surprise visit to the training ground last week ahead of their departure to play for Kerala Blasters FC in the Indian Super League.

“Wes was saying he needed a bit of help to get into shape so I invited him down,” added Macken.

“It was great for the lads just to be around players of their experience and it gave them all a big lift.”

While strides are being made on the training field, Boro enjoyed mixed results in Macken’s first week in charge.

They conceded a late goal to lose 2-1 at bottom side Ossett Albion in Evo-Stik North on Saturday – report on page 67 – but bounced back to win 3-2 at Squires Gate in the first round of the Lancashire FA Trophy on Monday thanks to a goal from Akil Grier and two from Brendan Glackin.