LLANRHAEADR Football Club have appointed Michael Barton to lead their challenge in the Ardal North East League next season.

The vastly experienced Barton succeeds Marc Griffiths who stepped down last month following a long tenure at the helm.

However the club suffered relegation from JD Cymru North last season with the villagers wasting no time in bringing in a new era at Tanllan.

Barton arrives from Salop Leisure Shropshire League side Morda United but is no stranger to Welsh football.

Following a playing career with Newtown and Rhayader Town in the Cymru Premier he managed Guilsfield, Berriew, Llanidloes Town and Four Crosses.

Barton led the latter to promotion to the Ardal leagues but departed before managing a game in the newly formed league which was postponed due to the pandemic and lockdown restrictions.

Instead Barton was appointed manager of Morda United and built a squad full of experience and youth which had looked poised to challenge for honours before faltering at the end of the season.

Barton said: "It was a tough decision to leave Morda as I have enjoyed my time there and built a good side but the offer from Llanrhaeadr to get back into Welsh football was to good to turn down.

"I have got a good vibe from everyone I have met so far and we are looking forward to building on what Marc Griffiths has built and pushing the club forward again.

"The club matches my ambition to get back into JD Cymru North. It's going to be tough but we will give it our all.

A club statement said: "Mike joins us with a wealth of experience and knowledge of mid Wales football.

"We look forward to working with Mike in our next exciting chapter. Welcome to Llan and we hope you enjoy your stay."