Hotspur look for seamless transition as Garmey steps up

HOLYHEAD Hotspur are promising a smooth transition after Darren Garmey replaced Campbell Harrison as first-team manager last week.

Garmey had been assistantboss for four years under Harrison, who has stood down after five seasons in his second spell in charge.

The 35-year-old Garmey was a product of Hotspur’s youth set up, and went on to make around 150 Cymru Alliance appearances before being forced to retire with multiple knee problems.

Over the past four years, Garmey has developed as a coach under Harrison, and is close to attaining the FAW B Licence.

Chairman Mike Taylor said: “Darren has Holyhead running through his veins. The appointment runs in line with our ethos of promoting from within as we try to do with our players wherever possible.”

Garmey has appointed Nick Dumbarton, 37, as his second-in-command. The pair are working together towards the B Licence.

Dumbarton is another ex-player that has been learning the ropes in the club’s youth system.

Garmey said: “As in every role I’ve had at this club, from being a player, a coach and first team assistant-manager, I will give 110% to the cause and be relentless in the quest of taking this great club as far as possible. The Cymru Alliance is again, without doubt, going to be the most exciting and competitive league in the country,”

A Hotspur statement added: “If the reaction to Campbell’s resignation has taught us anything, it is that we have some big boots to fill, but as a club we believe the transition will be seamless.”

Harrison began his second stint as Hotspur boss in 2013-14. Knockout competitions always brought the best out of his teams, none more so than the famous 2-1 Welsh Cup victory over eight-time trophy winners Bangor City in 2015/16.

In his first spell at the club, Harrison led Hotspur to second place behind Cymru Alliance champions Bala Town in 2008/09, as well as the League Cup final twice.