RUSS HALES A HOME RETURN

RUSS PENN says he could always see himself one day becoming Halesowen Town manager – and now he wants to really awaken the sleeping giant.

- Matt Badcock

Former Kidderminster Harriers boss Penn has replaced Paul Smith, who hs moved into an advisory role at the Southern Premier Central club.

The Yeltz hold a special place in Penn’s heart with his dad a two-time FA Vase winner, while they are also on his doorstep.

And the 38-year-old says that fact coupled with their ambition makes it an exciting return to management.

“I had a couple of other offers but the ground is a stone’s throw from me and the club has got so m u c h ambition,” Penn, who left National League Kiddy in January, told The NLP.

“I know the club and it is a sleeping giant. “It’s always been local, I enjoy going up there because the atmosphere is great. They get fantastic home crowds for the level.