Johnson rules out Lockwood for new first-team coach

NEW MAN AT THE HELM: Paul Murray takes charge of his first game as Hartlepool manager at Cambridge on Saturday.

ATHLETIC manager Lee Johnson has already cast his net for a replacement for first-team coach Paul Murray, confirming that talks have taken place with one possible candidate.

But he ruled out a permanent role on the backroom staff for experienced defender Adam Lockwood, who stepped in temporarily against Bradford.

Murray (38) was confirmed as new Hartlepool manager last Thursday - succeeding Colin Cooper. He is being helped by former Athletic favourite Willie Donachie, one-time right-hand man to legendary Joe Royle.

“I have somebody in mind and haven’t made a formal offer yet,” said Johnson, who is also still looking to fill the role of head of football operations.

“I have two roles to fill and not a lot of money to fill them with. I am going to try to be a bit creative. Adam Lockwood stepped in for the Bradford game and did the whole player-coach role in the interim.

“He did very well and the lads respect him. I am sure he will definitely be a coach one day, but it is a touch early for him; he’s still a good player who has two or three years left in him.”