FORMER Worcester City and Kidderminster Harriers defender Wayne Thomas is the new manager of Rushall Olympic.

John Allen has stepped aside to focus on his role as chairman and Thomas, who left Harriers as a player at the end of the season, has taken his place at the Walsall club.

The Gloucester-born defender, who has also played for the likes of Stoke City, Southampton and Burnley, will be assisted by Will Ryder and Trevor Burroughs.

The UEFA A licence coach, 38, will continue coaching the under 19s at Harriers after previous experience in the academy at New York Red Bulls.

Allen said: “Wayne’s personality, ambitions, contacts and ethos are exactly what we were looking for and I am excited by this appointment as we look forward to a successful 2017-18."

Rushall finished 12th in the Northern Premier League Premier Division during the 2016-17 season.