Former defender Baker joins Riversiders’ backroom staff

The former Riversiders defender takes over the club’s second string after the departures of Paul Bailey and Alec Curwen, who left their positions last week.

Garstang moved quickly to replace the outgoing duo and 29-year-old Baker took charge of his first game on Saturday.

Unfortunately, it was not a happy debut for the new boss as his team were beaten narrowly by one goal to nil at Bolton-based outfit Tempest United. Baker is a well known figure around the club. He was a member of the first team which won the West Lancashire League Premier Division during the 2007-08 season under Gary Hargreaves.

After nearly five seasons with the Riversiders, Baker moved to AFC Blackpool and helped the Seasiders win promotion to the North West Counties League Premier Division. A season with Burscough in the the Northern premier League followed before moving back to the Fylde Coast with Squires Gate.

Baker, who teaches English and is the sports master at St Thomas Junior School in Kepple Lane, rejoined Garstang under Iain Swan but a serious knee injury restricted his appearances.

A club spokesman said: “In his early days as a player with Garstang, Lee coached the juniors and has always showed an inclination to get involved in the coaching and management side of the game.

“We are delighted to have him on board and are confident in his ability to form the link between youth and first Team football.”

Baker will be looking to register his first win as boss when the reserves face Charnock Richard at the Riverside on Saturday with a 3pm kick off.

Meanwhile, the first team could move to fifth in the Premier Division if they defeat third-placed Charnock Richard on Saturday.

The youth team defeated Blackpool South 6-0