Former Luton loanee Harriman is named new AFC Rushden & Diamonds manager

Former Luton loanee Michael Harriman has been named as the manager of Northern Premier League Midlands Division side AFC Rushden & Diamonds on a permanent basis.

The 31-year-old came through the ranks at QPR, moving to Town in October 2015, as he went on to play 39 games for the Hatters, scoring twice.

Spells at Wycombe Wanderers, Northampton Town and Bedford Town followed, before he moved to Hayden Road in March, adopting a player-coach role during the summer.

Following the departure of Chris Nunn, Harriman takes over a side who are bottom of the table, with 10 defeats from 11, but did lead them to their first victory against Coleshill Town recently.

The defender is now relishing the challenge ahead, as speaking to the Diamonds website, he said: “I’m absolutely delighted to take on this role moving forward.

"This is a fantastic football club and to be given the chance to test myself in a new role is something that really excites me.

"The group of players we have here are an exciting bunch to work with.

"They are keen to learn and improve and will ultimately give 100 percent for this football club and that’s all I can ask.”

Chairman Rob Usher added: “The decision to appoint Michael became a straightforward decision in the end, for two reasons.

"Firstly, it was clear to us all that the reaction from the players to Michael and Tom (Lorraine) stepping in on an interim basis was overwhelmingly positive.

"Myself and Alex (Raspin, vice-chairman) have been down to watch training sessions that have been incredibly lively, intense and enjoyable and we’ve already seen this translate onto the pitch.

"Secondly, during the interview process the board of AFC Rushden & Diamonds and those that assisted us were blown away by Michael’s passion for the club.

"His vision, his playing philosophy and his desire to do whatever is required to ensure that our club is successful once more.

“We are all right behind Michael and Tom, and hope that our supporters will give them their full support as we head into some important matches in the context of our season.”