BREAKING: Michael Harriman is named new manager of AFC Rushden & Diamonds

The former Northampton Town and Luton Town defender has been in joint caretaker charge along with Tom Lorraine for the past two games, following Chris Nunn’s departure by mutual consent.

But the 31-year-old has now been made the permanent boss at Hayden Road, with Lorraine his assistant.

Harriman, who joined the club last March in a playing capacity before being appointed player-coach by Nunn over the summer, will combine managing with playing.

His first game in charge will be Saturday’s big relegation six-pointer against Rugby Town.

The club had said they wouldn’t waste time in replacing Nunn, and they made the announcement of Harriman’s appointment on Tuesday evening.

A club statement added: “Michael has amassed over 300 appearances in the Football League amongst clubs such as Queens Park Rangers, Wycombe Wanderers, Gillingham, Luton Town and Northampton Town, and takes his first step into management with the Diamonds.

"Michael, alongside Tom Lorraine, stepped in to steer the ship following the departure of Chris Nunn earlier this month, earning the club’s first victory of the season against Coleshill Town.

"Tom Lorraine will continue to assist Michael as assistant manager going forward.

"The intention is that Michael will continue to feature as part of the playing squad for the foreseeable future.”