BERNARD McNally has revealed his delight after his confirmation as manager of Newtown.
The club moved to appoint a successor following Darren Ryan’s shock exit after just 17 days at the helm, with Northern Irishman McNally named on Friday.
The former West Bromwich Albion and Northern Ireland international insisted he is relishing his chance to manage the Robins.
“It’s a new league for me,” said McNally, who has prior managerial experience with AFC Telford and Hednesford Town.
“I am really looking forward to the challenge and I am thrilled to be managing Newtown.
“I remember playing at Latham Park for Shrewsbury Town and it was always a ground I enjoyed visiting.”
The 48-year-old UEFA Pro Licence holder met the Robins squad and the full board ahead of his first training session on Tuesday evening.
“I am aware a few players have left since the end of the season, most notably the first team goalkeeper, but I am keen on retaining the rest of the squad, while obviously strengthening,” he said.
Last season’s management team of Andy Cale and Lee Williams quit after the budget was cut for the forthcoming campaign.
However McNally insisted the club’s budget is not a deterrent for him.
“Obviously Newtown is not one of the Welsh Premier clubs that can simply buy quality, but I am happy with the budget and after all part of the challenge is cutting your cloth accordingly.
“I am really looking forward to working at Newtown and will do everything I can to help the club forward.”
Secretary Owen Durbridge hailed the appointment while also backing the Shrewsbury-based coach to prove a hit with supporters.
“Bernie has a reputation for playing passing football and this is what the fans want here like any other club in the land,” he said.
“He impressed in the interview process and the fact that he holds an UEFA pro coaching licence also played a part in the club’s decision.”
Meanwhile goalkeeper Dave Roberts has followed Michael Jackson and Steve Jones out of the Latham Park exit door, following a turbulent start to the summer.
Roberts endured a mixed campaign after signing from Aberystwyth Town but his form was sufficient to secure a move to Welsh Premier League rivals Prestatyn Town.