HALESOWEN Town have named former Birmingham City and Sheffield Wednesday player Graham Hyde as new first team coach.

Hyde makes a return to the Yeltz after a spell as Martin O’Connor’s assistant in 2006-2007 and replaces the departing Kev Barry, who has been named as full manager of the RAF team.

Hyde had a professional career playing at the top level for Sheffield Wednesday, making over 200 league and cup appearances. He reached two Wembley finals in 1993 picking up runners up medals in both the League and FA Cups.

After leaving Sheffield United, he joined Birmingham City under the leadership of Trevor Francis. His playing career ended with Worcester City as club captain in 2006 at the age of 35.

On the coaching side he has held positions at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Birmingham City and lately at West Bromwich Albion’s Academy, he brings an extensive coaching knowledge and a very impressive list of coaching qualifications that include the FA Coaching licence and UEFA A and B licences.

Manager John Hill is delighted with Hyde's arrival. He said: "Although I am very saddened to lose Kev Barry as first team coach due to his RAF commitments, I am delighted that Graham has decided to join us. He brings with him a wealth of experience and is looking forward to the challenge ahead.’’