Mossley lead tributes to former boss Dave Wild

Tributes have been paid to much loved non-League football manager Dave Wild, whose death was announced over the weekend. 

The 38-year-old had successful spells with a number of clubs across the North West, including Mossley, where he served as manager between 2018 and 2020. 

During his tenure at Seel Park, Wild oversaw a period of growth and success, as well as a memorable run to the Manchester Premier Cup final in 2019. 

In a statement, the Lilywhites said he will be remembered as a manager who “gave everything he had to the job,” and played a role in connecting the club with its supporters. 

The club’s full statement, read: 

“We’re saddened to hear of the passing of former Lilywhites manager, Dave Wild. 

Dave took charge of the Lilywhites in March 2018 and stayed with us until February 2020. During his time at Seel Park, he oversaw a period of growth and success, including a run to the Manchester Cup final. 

We’ll remember him as a manager who gave everything he had to the job and someone who oversaw the start of bringing Mossley AFC closer to the community and connecting with our fans. Always a character, he’ll be sadly missed by all those who knew him well. 

We’ll be marking Dave’s passing at a game in the coming weeks. 

We send all our love to Dave’s family and friends at this terrible time. Rest in peace, Wildy.” 

Originally from the Stockport area, Wild went on to manage fellow Northern Premier League (NPL) West side Runcorn Linnets, and latterly West Yorkshire based Ossett United. 

Also offering a touching tribute was was Droylsden first team coach Paul Phillips, who served as Wild’s assistant at Mossley. 

In a post on X, Phillips said he was “struggling to come to terms” with his former colleague’s death, describing him as a “maverick, full of life and a loveable rogue." 

He also used the tribute to encourage anyone struggling mentally to seek support. 

If you’re struggling and need someone to talk to, Samaritans is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on 116 123.