by Jeff King
As widely reported, Chester-le-Street United will be running a reserve side under Head Coach Anthony Johnson who previously managed Durham United to promotion from Wearside League Division Two.
It's quite a coup for United to land Johnson whose son Sam is expected to feature in United's first team squad this season in Northern League Division 2.
Following last Sunday's Wearside League AGM we can reveal that the Reserves will start life in Division 3 of the competition. Many may feel this is a low-level step for the side but the league looks highly competitive and strong.
As well as United there are eleven other sides in the division many of whom, like United, have first teams in higher divisions.
The other sides in the league are. Barnard Castle FC, Billingham Synthonia AR FC, Consett AFC Juniors, Deerness Valley FC, Gateshead Leam Rangers Reserves, Hilda Park FC, New Durham FC, Peterlee United, Roseberry Park FC, Sunderland RCA Reserves, Wear United and Wearmouth CW Reserves FC.
Some tough looking opponents and the anticipated renewal of battle against Leam Rangers, albeit at Reserve level, is one of several eye-catching match-ups that will bring a great level of competition for United's Reserves.
It is intended to make-up the majority of the Reserve squad from first-year intake players at Park View Academy to give them a pathway into senior men's football, United's Under-23 side that play in the Durham FA Sunday League and players successful from the recent trial day.
It's a great opportunity for many players to be involved in the Chester-le-Street United player pathway that encompasses Park View Academy of Football. Under the experienced and knowledgeable tutelage of Anthony Johnson an exciting future lies ahead.