Bury Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Anthony Johnson as our new First Team Manager, with immediate effect.
This is a statement of intent from the Club as we continue to build with purpose, ambition, and pride in the badge. Anthony arrives with a reputation forged through hard work, tactical intelligence, and an uncompromising desire to win, qualities that resonate deeply with the values of Bury FC and its supporters.
Known for creating organised, energetic, and fearless teams, Anthony brings with him a proven ability to get the best out of his players while fostering a strong dressing room culture. His sides have consistently been built on togetherness, discipline, and a clear identity on the pitch, exactly the foundations we want to see moving forward.
We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Tim Lees for stepping into the role of First Team Manager on an interim basis. Tim, along with Sam Ashton and the rest of the Management Team have steered the team to unbeaten run of 9 games, winning 6, with 3 draws, seeing us into 2nd place in the NPL West.
Since Tim took on the role in December, he has always been clear with his intentions to return to the role of Assistant Manager. When the opportunity to bring Anthony to the club arose, this was something that was discussed with Tim, and as a collective, we feel is the best for both the club, and Tim.
We are delighted that Tim will continue in his role as First Team Assistant Manager, ensuring continuity for the squad and the fanbase.
“Jonno” began his managerial career at Ramsbottom United. His successful stint with The Rams, with promotion to the NPL West in 2014, led to a well-documented move to Salford City in 2015 following the Class of ’92 takeover.
A period of success followed for Salford, with promotion to the Northern Premier League Premier Division before a run to the Second Round of the FA Cup. Johnson led Salford to the National League North at the first attempt, defeating Workington in the Play Off Final.
After reaching the Play Offs in the National League North in their first season at the level, Saford won the National League North in 2018 and were promoted to the National League for the first time in their history.
Johnson left Salford City in May 2018 to become the manager at Chester FC. Chester were 3rd in the National League North in 2021 when the season was declared null and void due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Anthony became the manager of Spennymoor Town in December 2021 before taking the reins at Radcliffe in May 2023. The 2023-24 season saw Radcliffe promoted to the National League North for the first time in 20 years and leaves with Boro currently in the Play Off spots.
Johnson joins the Club fully committed to the challenge ahead and eager to get started immediately. He will work closely with the players and staff to instil an identity that supporters can be proud of, one built on effort, togetherness, and attacking intent.
The appointment of Anthony Johnson represents a bold step forward and a clear signal of where Bury Football Club intends to go. With Anthony Johnson leading the First Team, there is renewed optimism and confidence as we look to the future.
Please join us in giving Anthony a warm Bury welcome.
The journey continues — with one of our own 
