It’s ‘business as usual’ at The New Saints after Craig Harrison departure

The 39-year-old was released from his Park Hall contract on Friday to join National League outfit Hartlepool, ending his six-year tenure with the Welsh champions.

Interim bosses Scott Ruscoe and Steve Evans will not be in contention to succeed Harrison, as neither hold a UEFA Pro licence required to take charge of a club in European competition.

Further UEFA rules state that the club has 60 days to appoint a successor, giving them a deadline of July 25.

Saints’ chief operating officer Ian Williams told the Shropshire Star that, despite the appointment being at an early stage, he has received several enquiries regarding the role.

Park Hall officials will meet this week to discuss the details before the club officially release an advertisement for the position.

Williams said: “We’re into our second week of preparation for Europe.

“The staff worked closely with Craig on planning for pre-season.

“Hopefully that means there’ll be a seamless transition – it’s very much business as usual as Scott and Steve have been here at the club for a number of years.

“We’ve got meetings this week where we’ll have more conversations and then advertise.

“There’ll be one or two names banded about.

“I’ve had a number of enquiries through already over email after the news came out on Friday.”

The Saints begin their Champions League journey with the first qualifying round first-leg tie on either June 27 or 28 – they will find out their opposition when the draw is made on June 19.

“The Welsh Premier League is continuing to improve its quality of football year on year,” added Williams.

“It is an ideal opportunity for young players and managers to show what they’re capable of.

“Craig’s a great example of that. Young, keen and enthusiastic managers hoping to establish themselves.”