ONE of the most successful managers in the history of The New saints, Craig Harrison, has returned for a second spell in charge of the Welsh champions.

The former Connah's Quay Nomads boss returns to Park Hall five years after after he departed to take over at now League Two Hartlepool United – then in the National League – following a record-breaking spell as TNS boss.

Harrison, who had been long-rumoured for a return to TNS, replaces Anthony Limbrick, who was sacked after he failed to secure European gropup stage football following defeat in the UEFA Conference League.

The Australian did secure Saints's first Cymru Premier League title in three years, as TNS romped to the title by 21 points, as well as an FAW Cup success.

TNS chairman Mike Harris says TNS admitted he was delighted his former boss is returning to the club.

He said: "Craig is our most successful manager, not just with results and trophies but in his style of football too, which is appealing to our fans.”

"Craig will meet up with the playing squad tomorrow and be involved in the Nathaniel MG Cup game at the Deeside Stadium this coming Saturday.

"The New Saints would like to thank Connah’s Quay Nomads for their help and assistance in enabling the deal to be completed swiftly."

Harrison is the most successful manager in The Saints’ history, winning six successive Welsh Premier League titles during his previous stint at Park Hall.

Under his leadership, the club also broke the Guinness World Record for the most consecutive association football victories (27), captured the JD Welsh Cup four times, and the Nathaniel MG Cup three times.

And he faces an immediate return to his old club Nomads in the Nathaniel MG Cup.