Jackson-Cooney gutted by Nelson exit

1:29pm Tuesday 20th May 2008

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OUTGOING Nelson boss Nick Jackson-Cooney admits he is disappointed at not being given a chance to take relegated Blues back up.

The Victoria Park outfit parted company with Jackson-Cooney before the weekend and have since appointed his assistant, Jon Westall, into the managerial hot-seat.

His departure followed Nelson's relegation from Vodkat League Division One.

The Darwen-based coach was given 10 matches to save the club from the drop, but Nelson eventually finished bottom of the table.

"I would have liked the chance to take Nelson back up," said Jackson-Cooney.

"I thought I would have been given a proper go - but that's football.

"I've been in the game long enough to know that these things happen.

"It's a shame. But I'm very grateful to chairman Alan Pickering for giving me the chance.

"I did get a few good results. Some people have told me that I didn't get enough - and that's fair comment.

"But I feel I got them playing better football during my time there."

Jackson-Cooney was given an opportunity to stay on at Victoria Park, coaching the club's Under 18 side, but he decided to walk away altogether.

He added: "Jon asked me if I wanted to carry on and take charge of the club's Under 18 side, but I said no.

"I've moved up too much in my managerial career to take a backward step like that.

"I want to be a manager, and I feel I can do it at this level.

"I definitely believe I'm good enough, especially on the coaching side of things."

Meanwhile, Nelson have confirmed a series of pre-season friendlies.

AFC Liverpool will play their first ever fixture at Victoria Park on Saturday July 19.

Three home fixtures, against Chorley, Rossendale and Colne, follow on July 26, July 29 and August 2 respectively.