New skipper named as Shane Byrne takes the armband while Ashley Hemmings takes ambassadorial role…
By Matty Paddock - 02/08/2022
Posted 3 years ago
RUSS Penn has named midfielder Shane Byrne the new Harriers Captain ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Byrne signed for the Reds earlier this summer after establishing himself as one of the most consistent players in National League North.
With four successive play-off campaigns under his belt, Penn feels Byrne is ideally placed to lead the Reds into the new campaign that begins at Blyth Spartans on Saturday.
Reflecting on the decision to hand Byrne the armband, Penn said: “We’ve gone for a new-look squad and there have been plenty of ins and outs, but he is your standout.
“He knows the level inside out and had relatively good success at all the clubs he’s been at, so hopefully he can lead us to success this year.”
The boss also confirmed that Ashley Hemmings will be the new Club Ambassador following the departure of stalwart Keith Lowe who held the post for the last couple of seasons.
The Club Ambassador, making player appearances and actively promoting the club, provides a key link between the club and its fans internally and externally, with the gaffer feeling the player’s natural connection with the Reds’ supporters made him the key candidate.
Penn added: “He leads from the front, puts in consistent performances, trains hard and is basically the forefront of the football club.
“He is one of the longest-serving players here now, albeit only three years, but the decision was an absolute no-brainer.
“He has had the armband in pre-season a couple of times and has loved it, so it is absolutely the right choice to be part of that leadership group.”
This article is about: Player News
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