IAN Street says he is surprised to be 1874 Northwich’s first manager, but is determined to prove the club’s board is right to back him.

And the former Winsford boss insists he is not daunted by the challenge of building a team from scratch for the fans-run outfit’s debut season.

“I’ve been blown away by the reaction,” he said.

“The level of interest has been a bit crazy; my phone hasn’t stopped ringing or buzzing with messages from people wishing me well.

“I’m made up to have been asked to do the job, it’s a proud moment, and I’m honoured that those running the club have put their faith in me. It means a lot.”

Street, 48, has been out of work since leaving North West Counties League Premier Division club Ashton Athletic in November.

Previously he guided Blues to third place in 2011, winning the League Challenge Cup for the first time in the club’s history the same year.

His face is a familiar one to Witton fans too, for he served as then manager Gary Finley’s assistant during his second spell in charge.

“This is different to the other roles I’ve had,” said Street.

“Time will tell in exactly what way, but being part of something new like this is unique.

“Every manager will tell you that he hates interviews, but I was determined to do well in this one and had a good feeling from the moment I met the panel.

“This is a group of people who genuinely want the best for their club and to do it in the right way. I’m excited by that.”

He includes a spell as manager at Warrington Town and assistant – to another ex-Winsford boss Joe Gibiliru – at St Helens Town on his CV too.

Street's search for players, who he says must fit a particular profile he has in mind, has started already.

He said: “I’m not frightened that fans will expect us to do well, and nor should the players be.

“I’ll be telling those that I want to sign that they’ll be helping to make history as part of a new club. That will be my message.

“I want to be sure they can handle the pressure; it’s easy to make mistakes in front of 30 or 40 people and get over it quickly. Can they do it when there is a couple of hundred supporters watching?”

Street will announce the first members of his backroom staff in the coming days at the same time as contacting potential opponents for pre-season friendlies.

1874 Northwich have already confirmed games in July against landlords Winsford and AFC Rushden & Diamonds.

“The ambition is burning inside of me,” concluded Street.

“I’ve had a rest, but have spent time over the past few months watching a lot of games. I know what I want to do, and how to approach it.

“The potential is there to achieve something really special, that’s what we’re all focused on.”