Chester-le-Street have appointed Anthony Smith as their new manager.

Smith has gained a good reputation as one of the coaches at the Gateshead College football academy, and works for former Chester manager Paul Bryson.

Chester chairman Joe Burlison said: "The club have appointed former Sunderland defender Anthony Smith as their new manager.

"He has plenty of coaching experience with Sunderland academy and Gateshead, where he was part of their Durham Challenge Cup winning team, and he currently works at Gateshead College academy. He is looking forward to the challenge with optimism.

"Colin Wake with Anthony as his assistant."

Smith succeeds Grant Crookes, who quit last Monday just five league games into the season.

Colin Wake was caretaker manager for two games, the league win against Horden, and Saturday's Vase defeat by Bishop Auckland.