A former Macclesfield Town player has paid tribute to his late manager.

Peter Wragg, who led the Silkmen to Wembley, passed away on Christmas Day

Neil Fairclough, who played under Peter at both Macclesfield Stalybridge Celtic, has now shared his memories of 'Wraggie'.

"A larger than life character and a true winner," Neil said.

"He instilled into his players the determination and heart to fight for wins no matter what the match situation was.

"With his drive to have the fittest team in the league losing positions were turned into draws and draws into wins. That won trophies.

"Finishing a tough training session Wraggie would say 'just one more' of whatever it was we were doing that turned into five, 10 "just one more". That won trophies.

"Wraggie won trophies."

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Neil added: "Wraggie was a true legend who has left a massive impression on football throughout but especially in the Tameside, Manchester regions.

"Just one more Wraggie. Rest in peace."

READ MORE: Tributes pour in following death of 'legendary' former Macclesfield manager

Peter Wragg (Credit: Macclesfield FC)

Peter took charge of Macclesfield Town in March 1986.

In his first full season in charge he led the team to a league, President's Cup and League Challenge Cup treble.

The Silkmen's win over Hyde United on the final day of the 1986-87 season meant promotion to the conference for the first time in their history.

An impressive FA Cup run followed in the 1987-88 season, with Macclesfield eliminating both Carlise United and Rotherham United before succumbing to Port Vale.

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However, a trip to Wembley soon beckoned as Peter guided the Moss Rose outfit to an appearance in the 1989 FA Trophy Final, where they were beaten by Telford United.

In November 1992 Peter's Macclesfield made history as the first-ever non-league side to defeat a league side on penalties in the FA Cup.

 However, they struggled in the league that season, narrowly avoiding relegation as Peter was relieved of his duties. 

His death was announced by Macclesfield FC on Friday, December 27.

A spokesperson for the club said: "Macclesfield FC are deeply saddened to learn that legendary former Manager Peter Wragg passed away on Christmas Day.

"A colossal figure within the history of our club and non-league football more widely, Peter joined the Silkmen in March 1986.

"Overseeing a Northern Premier League treble-winning season in 1987, Peter went on to lead his side out at Wembley two years later.

"A genius in masterminding cup upsets, Peter was an enigmatic figure who paved the way for our promotion to the Football League in 1997 under Sammy McIlroy.

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"Peter leaves a vibrant legacy and will remain engrained in the hearts and minds of so many of us forevermore.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to Peter's family at this incredibly sad time."

Hyde United, whom Peter managed before joining Macclesfield, hosted the Silkmen on New Year's Day, holding a minute's applause held before kick-off.