Interest is already flooding in for the soon-to-be-vacant Workington Reds manager’s role.

The position was advertised this week following the news that Lee Andrews will be stepping down at the end of the season.

Club chairman John Mackay said he had already received interest from several parties just a day after the advert went out.

Reds hope to have a new manager in position by early May so that they can start to reshape the squad ready for next season, when Workington will start life in the Northern Premier North West Division, after being relegated this term.

“We are looking for someone with good coaching qualifications, man management skills and good contacts within the game,” said Mackay.

“And if they were still young enough to be a player/manager that would be even better.

“It is not the be all and end all but it would be a bonus as it gives us two options of coaching from the side and leading from the front as well.”

The new manager will be responsible for the first team training and on matchdays and also for liaising with the reserve squad.

“They need to be a professional role model and motivate the players,” added Mackay.

“But it is pleasing that we already have had interest and the advert only went out yesterday. The closing date is April 29 and we are hoping to then hold interviews and have someone in place in early May.

“The new manager will obviously need to get to know the players and bring in some new ideas and possibly players to bolster the main squad.”

Mackay paid tribute to outgoing manager Andrews, who indicated he would step down as Reds’ relegation from the Northern Premier League was confirmed on Saturday.

“I have nothing but praise for Lee,” said Mackay. “he has been the rock of this club regardless of what has happened. He has been a loyal player, coach and manager. At the end of the day he has done everything he could.”