Why Curtis Weston is backing John Pemberton for the Chesterfield manager's job

Pemberton, 55, took over as caretaker boss from John Sheridan in January and guided the Spireites out of the National League relegation zone before the season was halted due to the coronavirus.

Weston, 33, started all of Pemberton’s nine matches in charge and scored in the wins against Wrexham and Ebbsfleet United.

“When Pembo came in he did an incredible job,” Weston said.

“When someone comes in they will say that (it is a fresh start) but I think we actually felt that and everyone was working hard to get their place in the team so I think that was a massive part.

“Training changed - he brought in his own philosophy and the way he wanted us to play.

“He was good one-to-one with the players and pretty early on established what we needed and who needed an arm around them and who can be left to their own devices.”

Pemberton joined the Blues on a short-term rolling contract and won five of his nine games in charge but the former defender is still waiting to find out whether he will be in charge for the next campaign.

A decision has been put on hold due to the uncertainty created by the pandemic which has also delayed the proposed takeover by the community trust.

However, it is understood that the club’s owner Dave Allen and the trust want him to stay.

And there is no doubt among the players that he should remain.

“If you look at the job he was asked to do, which was to get us safe, he has done that job very well,” Weston added.

“I like working with him. He is very respectful with players whether you are in the team, out of the team, out of the squad, he lets you know what is going to happen.

“The respect level is there for every player no matter what age.

“I can’t see him not being in charge and if he isn’t I can’t see what reason you would give for that.”