Former boss predicts success for new Spireites coach

Matt Duke arrives at the Proact with a glowing reference from his former boss.
Alfreton Town vs Worcester City - Matt Duke - Photo By James WilliamsonAlfreton Town vs Worcester City - Matt Duke - Photo By James Williamson
Alfreton Town vs Worcester City - Matt Duke - Photo By James Williamson

The Spireites’ new goalkeeping coach is likely to find success thanks to his experience and character, according to Nicky Law.

Law, although disappointed to lose the 39-year-old from his Alfreton Town playing squad, is a big fan of the former Bradford City stopper.

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And the man who once managed Chesterfield wasn’t going to stand in Duke’s way.

“He came in last year and did well, he’s a great lad, experienced and performed really, really well.

“We renegotiated a deal to keep him here this year but he came in the other day and said he had an opportunity to go into full-time with a club and I think we owed him that.

“At 39 he wouldn’t be appreciated us making him hang around another year.

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“It’s an opportunity he had to take, it might not come up again.

“We’re sad to lose him but for what he’s contributed, we granted him that wish.”

Giving an insight into the man who will work with the currently injured Tommy Lee, his short-term replacement and whoever Chesterfield sign as a back-up keeper, Law lauded Duke’s character.

“He’s not overly loud, he thinks about what he’s saying, which is a good trait,” said Law.

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“He’s played at a very, very good level, played under pressure at the top end of football.

“That is experience lots of goalkeeper coaches don’t have, that can be a great attribute for a coach, and for a young goalkeeper learning from him.

“He has a great temperament, he’s a nice lad and I imagine he’s the kind of lad people want to be around.”

And Danny Wilson should have no worries about the way Duke will conduct himself as a key part of the backroom staff at Chesterfield.

Law added: “I think he’ll be good, he’s reliable, he won’t go and do something stupid or let you down, he’s a steady character.

“I’m sure he’ll do well.”