CHAIRMAN Chris Swan has said Redditch United have already begun looking for a new manager after Liam McDonald joined Hednesford Town.

United stunned the Valley Stadium outfit with his decision, after guiding them to second in the Southern League Premier and the play-offs this season.

Despite McDonald's departure, United have plans in place for a bright future, with a major revamp set to start at the ground on Friday.

“I would like to thank Liam and his backroom team of Nick Green and David Bridgwater for their hard work and I’m sure everyone at the Reds will wish them the best in their new challenge,” Swan said.

“These are exciting times at Redditch United with nearly £1million being invested in our new 3G pitch, improvements to the stadium and the launch of our new football academy.

“We have already spoken to a number of excellent candidates which shows how well the club is now regarded in non-league.

“Building on the success of last year, coupled with all the work going on at the Valley Stadium, I’m looking forward to a new era at Redditch United.”

The club expects to start interviews by the end of the week.

McDonald took charge at Redditch in May 2013 having previously played for the Reds.

He said: “I would just like to thank everybody involved in making Redditch a success over the past three years.

“I've loved my time at the club and it will always have a special place in my heart.

Off the field, things have progressed so much that I’m confident it will have a bright future.

“It was a really difficult decision to leave but I felt that it was my time to move on and start a new challenge. I'm sure the new man coming in will be able to carry on the good work the club have done and success will follow.

“I would like to thank Chris Swan for giving me an opportunity – it’s been brilliant working alongside him. And, together with Nick Green and David Bridgwater, I would like to thank the players for giving their all for the club and the supporters for backing the players and myself 100 per cent.”