THE search for Halesowen Town's new manager is already in full swing, says director Keith McKenna.

The Yeltz have already received a host of CVs from people keen to take the hotseat at the Grove and a shortlist will be drawn up this weekend.

McKenna hopes to be able to name the new boss next week if the recruitment process is a smooth one.

Town are looking for a new boss after John Hill's six-year, 300-plus game reign came to an end with yesterday's announcement that both he and assistant manager Matt Clarke will leave the club by mutual consent.

The duo will remain in charge for Saturday’s FA Trophy trip to Spennymoor and Tuesday night’s league game at AFC Rushden and Diamonds before stepping aside after a difficult start to the new campaign.

McKenna is now busy speaking to interested candidates.

He said: "There has been plenty of interest already and we're already speaking to people.

"I'll be speaking to a few today, some in the morning and again on Sunday. We have a wide range of people of varying experience that have put themselves forward. We've even seen interest from as far as the League of Ireland.

"It's been a rollercoaster but we're hopeful of being able to make an announcement next week."

Mckenna was also keen to praise Hill for the way he is helping the club over the next two games.

He added: "It shows you the measure of the man that he's willing to stick around and help the club.

"That shows you the kind of person he is and the love he has for the club.

"I spoke to him today and he's fully focused on the game on Saturday and still working as hard as ever."