Hednesford Town appoint Nicky Eaden as manager
Hednesford Town have announced the appointment of Nicky Eaden as first-team manager - replacing Rob Smith, who moved to Halesowen earlier this season.
Former full-back Eaden joins the Pitmen having departed Nuneaton Borough in November and will be assisted by Gary Hayward as part of the club's new management team.
The 46-year-old had a lengthy playing career, making more than 300 appearances for Barnsley before going on to have spells with Birmingham City, Wigan, Nottingham Forest, Lincoln and Kettering Town.
He was famously part of Blues' 2001 Worthington Cup Final defeat to Liverpool - which the Merseysiders won on penalties after playing out a 1-1 draw after extra time.
Hayward assisted Eaden at Nuneaton, but also has non-league experience as manager of Eastwood Town and Worksop Town.
Both Eaden and Hayward join with immediate effect and will be in charge for the New Years' Day clash with Farsley Celtic.
“I’m looking forward to getting going." Eaden said.
"Some people are perhaps surprised that I would take a job at this level but I see Hednesford as a great club and opportunity to create something really good.
“My first management job, with Nuneaton, could be best described as challenging but after speaking to people here at Hednesford I could tell that the set-up here was right. I’m very much looking forward to getting the club moving in the right direction again and playing good football.
“I feel as if I have a good mix with myself and Gary - he is very experienced in the non-league game and with both our contacts that we possess we feel that we can create a good team.”
The Pitmen also issued their thanks to Francino Francis for his efforts as caretaker boss.
"Everyone at Keys Park would like to thank Francino Francis for the hard work that he has undertaken after taking on the caretaker manager role during the interim period. We wish him all the best for the future and thank him for his efforts while in the role." read the club statement.
