Brightwell replaces Paul Ince as manager at Moss Rose
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Macclesfield Town have appointed Ian Brightwell as their new manager.
Brightwell succeeds Paul Ince, who recently joined the Silkmen's League Two rivals Milton Keynes Dons.
The 39-year-old former Manchester City defender has signed a two-year contract at Moss Rose, and will be assisted by former Scotland star Asa Hartford.
He joined Macc as reserve team boss in July 2004, and had a spell as caretaker boss last year before Ince was appointed to succeed Brian Horton.
"I had a brief taste of what it was like last season, and I cannot wait to get started," Brightwell, who was first-team coach under Ince, told the club website.
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The board were struck by his enthusiasm, ideas and unbdoubted passion for Macclesfield Town
Macclesfield chairman Rob Bickerton
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"I've worked with a lot of great managers, including Incey, and know what it takes to be a good gaffer.
"I have a lot of respect for Asa, and I am delighted he has accepted the offer to join me."
Brightwell's last appearance for the Silkmen as a player came last October.
He made over 460 league appearances for Manchester City, Coventry, Walsall, Stoke, Vale and Macclesfield.
His new assistant Hartford has been on the coaching staff at several clubs including Blackburn, Stoke, Manchester City and most recently Blackpool.
Chairman Rob Bickerton added: "We spoke to a lot of people, including a lot of known names.
"But we kept coming back to 'Bob' (Brightwell) - the board were struck by his enthusiasm, ideas and unbdoubted passion for Macclesfield Town.
"We saw last season how the combination of an 'old' and 'new' head can work, and in appointing Asa I think we have the right balance of experience and youth."