NOTICING Shortwood United’s managerial crisis on social media prompted Adam Paul to take the reins.

The SNJ revealed last week that the Nailsworth club were considering resigning after a fruitless search for a new manager, but Paul, a former Shortwood, Slimbridge and Whitminster defender, felt he couldn’t see his old club go to the wall.

“I saw the SNJ story on Facebook and spoke to chairman Bill Reay and felt it was a challenge I could take on,” revealed Paul, who previously managed Whitminster in the County League.

“I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to go back to such an amazing club. I had two great years at the Wood as a player under John Evans and Roger Smith

Former Shortwood player Jason Scrivens will assist Paul alongside ex-Hardwicke manager Lee Chivers.

Shortwood will play in the Toolstation Western Premier League next season after financial constraints prompted the club to resign from the Southern League.

However, Paul is up for the arduous rebuilding job, after a raft of players departed Meadowbank, including Nick Humphreys, who is training with Gloucester City. Jack Freeman and Jordan Morris are trying to earn deals with Charlie Griffin’s Cirencester Town, and Alex Kibble has opted to return to County League Stonehouse Town.

Paul said: “We have spoken to a number of players and the squad from last season are welcome to return.”

Despite the decision to drop down a level, Paul insists Shortwood are a club players should want to join.

He added: “This is a challenge that we are all ready for. Who wouldn't want to play on such a great playing surface - we have brilliant facilities at Meadowbank.”

Wood chairman Reay spoke of his delight after agreeing terms with Paul this morning (Saturday), he said: "I am absolutely thrilled that Adam is joining us. We’ve had our fair share of difficulties in recent weeks trying to get someone to take the job given the changes we’ve made for the coming season.

"My preference has always been to appoint someone who has either played for or had a former association with the club.

"What was really important to me was to attract someone who really cares about the club and our supporters and is proud to wear the Wood badge on his shirt. In a short space of time Adam has convinced me he has this in spades and I firmly believe he has all of the attributes to make him a first class appointment."

Shortwood start training on July 4 (6.30pm) at Meadowbank. Old and new players are welcome to attend.