Former Telford boss Rob Smith has been linked with an immediate return to football – with the newly formed Chester FC.

Smith admitted he is reluctant to drop below Blue Square North level where he has spent the last three seasons with the Bucks.

But he admitted the temptation of managing Chester – who are hoping to be placed in the Evo-Stik Premier (the current UniBond Premier) next season after the old club went into liquidation – could be too great to resit if the opportunity arose.

“I don’t really want to drop down a level (from the Blue Square North),” said Smith.

“But, when a club as big as Chester comes along, you have to make exceptions because they don’t come much bigger in non-League football.

“When I took the Willenhall job we were second bottom and when I took over at Telford they were second bottom of the UniBond Premier.

“The Telford fans run the club as well so it makes potentially going into Chester a similar situation — and it’s a great environment to work in.

“Chester is an exciting proposition for most managers and the challenge is building a side for the league you’re in and not looking any further.

“The UniBond Premier (Evo-Stik Premier next season) is a very physical league and the key is having players who can adapt to all sorts of situations that league throws us. I’ve got the right contacts for that level and above.”

By JAMES GARRISON