Bob Blackburn said John Deacey’s choice of assistant on his return to the Horsfall hot seat was an unexpected but wise decision.

Deacey chose Mark Hume as his right-hand man for his third stint in charge at the club, with Hume rejoining Park Avenue as player-coach from Gainsborough Trinity.

Chief executive Blackburn said: “There was some surprise when John said he wanted Mark Hume as his assistant.

“Humey was a player here when John was manager last time and they had their ups and downs, as you would expect.

“But I have to say they make a great, if strange, partnership.

“I can see it working because John is the quiet, studious type and Humey is the fiery character, so I think the squad is in good hands.”

The Bradford club may be mid-table at the moment but Blackburn believes that with Deacey back at the helm their counterparts will see a different Avenue from here on in.

He has already been impressed with the way the new boss has got back into his role, even though he has yet to even take charge of a home game since his return.

He said: “John Deacey has come straight back into the fold and, although there have been changes to the squad while he has been away, the players instantly respect him.

“Even with the weather as it has been, he has been putting some good training sessions on and it has been pleasing to watch.

“Mind you, none of us on the board wanted him to go in the first place. John has a superb work ethic and he loves his football, that is apparent to anyone who comes in contact with him.

“He is also a very nice guy. I know that counts for nothing to most people and doesn’t always lead to success but it means a lot to me and I really like talking to John about football or anything else.”

Deacey is hoping to finally make his third Horsfall bow at the sixth time of asking against Mickleover Sports on Monday.

The arctic blast gripping the nation has already seen five Avenue home fixtures postponed since Deacey was appointed in early November.

They included two matches against neighbours FC Halifax Town, plus games against Matlock Town, North Ferriby and Ashton Athletic.