Boy, 11, guides team to a draw against Bolton Wanderers

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Media caption,

Daniel Fryer, 11, was promoted to manager for AFC Fylde for a pre-season friendly

An 11-year-old boy was promoted to the role of manager for a pre-season friendly - and was an instant success.

Daniel Fryer, from Wesham, guided National League North team AFC Fylde to a 1-1 draw against Championship team Bolton Wanderers, who play four tiers above them.

A fellow Fylde supporter won the opportunity, but gave Daniel the role when he could not attend.

Daniel gave a team talk, held a press conference and made substitutions., external

He also wore an initialled jacket with 'Boss' inscribed on the reverse for Wednesday night's game.

The Coasters battled to a hard-won draw, external after two penalties, with winger Dion Charles' spot-kick cancelling out an earlier strike from the away side.

Speaking after full time, the interim boss said: "I've got the coat, and the manager's notebook and I've really enjoyed myself.

Image source, AFC Fylde
Image caption,

Daniel took charge for the match at 3,000-capacity Kellamergh Park

"After this, it's really inspired me and I really want to be a footballer - even more than I did before."

'Great insight'

The young gaffer, who is more often found working as a ball boy at the ground, had earlier hinted at his tactics before kick-off - making it clear that only 100% effort from his players would be enough.

He said: "I'll make sure to keep them high in confidence before the game.

"If they are not doing well at half-time then I will get in to them."

Image caption,

Interim boss Daniel Fryer, 11, alongside usual AFC Fylde manager Dave Challinor

Dave Challinor, AFC Fylde's usual manager, said: "Dan's a massive help to the club on matchdays anyway, but he was obviously given a bit of a promotion.

"It's a great insight for him into what goes on in the dressing room and on the bench."

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