GUISELEY AFC have announced the return of Mark Bower as First Team Manager.

It comes following his departure from Bradford (Park Avenue) back in November following seven years with the Horsfall side.

Bower will take the Guiseley reins following tomorrow's fixture away at Workington, taking a watching brief from the stands alongside his assistant manager Danny Boshell. 

He rejoins the club on a two-year contract until the end of the 2025/26 season.

Bower managed the Lions previously in the 2013/14 and 2014/15 seasons, culminating in a National League North playoff final victory away at Chorley which has gone down as one of the greatest moments in the club's history

In Bower’s three seasons at the club he led the Lions to two play-off finals and ensured his side only spent one week in the Vanarama National League relegation zone in their opening season in non league’s top tier against all the odds.

General manager, James Pickles, said:  “We are delighted to secure the return of Mark and Danny to the club following their previous successful spell.

“We again had strong interest in the role however we felt Mark’s enthusiasm for a return, his previous success and experiences over the last few seasons will prove him to be the best manager to take this club forward, long term. 

“We have a strong core to the squad which we are looking to retain for next season and we feel that Mark’s strengths in creating a strong changing room mentality and tight-knit squad are exactly what is needed for the club.”

Bower and Boshell will both be playing in the John Bridson Tribute Match at Nethermoor on Sunday. 

Kick-off is at 2pm with a ‘Pay What You Want’ donation system in place at the turnstiles, all funds raised will go towards installing a new tunnel at Nethermoor in tribute to John. 

Snacks and drinks will also be on sale at the game with a raffle taking place.