MANAGER Paul Smith has left Redditch United to take up the vacant role at Halesowen Town.

He joins the relegated Yeltz after keeping Redditch in the Southern League Central and will now be tasked with handing Hales an immediate return.

Smith started his managerial career with Alvechurch where he made more than 250 appearances as a player. Following this he moved to manage Studley before, in 2014, he joined Bromsgrove Sporting in what would prove to be his most successful spell as manager.

He led the Rouslers to second place in Midlands League Division One. The following season saw more success, another second place was gained alongside two cup final appearances.

The next season, if it could be, was even better, Smith led the Rouslers to the League Championship and were unbeaten in the league all season and he was a game from Wembley as Bromsgrove Sporting lost in the semi-final of the FA Vase against Cleethorpes Town.

Smith left Bromsgrove in March 2018 and joined Highgate United for a while before joining Redditch United in September 2018.

He will now begin pre-season preparations at the Grove after taking over from caretaker management duo Lee Hughes and Asa Charlton.

Read more from Paul Smith here: Redditch left in strong position to progress

On confirming the appointment, Yeltz director of football Keith McKenna said: “I am delighted that we have secured the services of Paul Smith as our new manager of Halesowen Town FC and am certain he has the credentials to take us back up to the Premier Division and above. He is meticulous and communicates very well on and off the field and has a great understanding of all levels of the game and will bring an exciting brand of football to the Grove."