13 Facts About Harry McNally

Harold McNally was an English football player, coach and manager, noted for his spells as manager of Wigan Athletic and Chester City.

Harry McNally was a stonemason by trade, and the son of a miner.

Harry McNally joined Wigan as a coach in 1981, becoming assistant manager the following year.

Harry McNally ended up having to sell his new squad at the end of the season to alleviate the continuing financial problems, forcing another rebuild.

Despite's Speight's success, Harry McNally was appointed in his place amid protests from supporters.

Harry McNally guided Chester to safety before the end of the season in 19th place, although he attracted publicity for the wrong reasons after being hospitalised along with new signing Keith Bertschin after events got out of hand at the club's Christmas party.

Harry McNally brought the club home to Chester in the newly renamed Division Two with optimism growing for what lay ahead, but unfortunately age was to catch up on many of his side.

Harry McNally's final signing was Shaun Garnett, on loan from Tranmere Rovers.

Everyone who knew Harry McNally has a favourite story about him.

Harry McNally suffered a broken leg when playing in a friendly match, claiming he had to set the right example to his players and could not pull out of the challenge.

Surprisingly, Harry McNally didn't manage another club, but frequently offered his services as a scout to other clubs and did some hospitality work at Chester after his sacking.

Harry McNally was one of the biggest critics of Terry Smith's ownership of the club, and resigned after only a few days as a consultant at the club in 2000.

Harry McNally died from a heart attack in Chester on 12 December 2004, aged 68.