Barry boss to coach Wales u-16

Peter Nicholas hopes new signings will bring the good times back to Barry

Barry Town boss Peter Nicholas has been handed the Wales under-16 coach's job.

He takes over from former Welsh goalkeeping legend Neville Southall.

Nicholas will work part-time with the under-16 squad, after receiving permission from his club chairman to combine the new role with his permanent position at Barry.

Speaking about the appointment, Nicholas said, "It's a great honour for me. I'm over the moon with the news."

His first task will be to meet with his predecessor in order to make the most of Southall's knowledge of the under-16 game in Wales.

Grass roots

Nicholas is optimistic about the current crop of youngsters at his disposal.

"I think the situation is very healthy at under-16 level," he said.

"I'll be looking for my under-16 players to try and break into the reserve teams at their clubs, and hopefully into the first teams within the next eighteen months."

Nicholas was also able to announce two new signings for Barry Town, ahead of the new League of Wales season.

New blood

Former Cardiff City player Lee Phillips comes in to bolster the defence, while Jeff McLean, who has spent time with Manchester Utd and Bolton will move into the midfield.

Last week, Nicholas announced the signing of former Crystal Palace clubmate Kenny Brown as his player coach.

Brown, the 33-year-old son of former Norwich City boss Ken Brown, turned down a Nationwide League club to join the only full-time League of Wales outfit.

The latest signings take his total since coming to the club to nine.