Head coach Paynter shown the door by Connah’s Quay Nomads

Connah’s Quay Nomads are due to appoint a replacement for departed first team head coach Billy Paynter early this week.

Nomads dispensed with Liverpool-based Paynter’s services after Sunday’s 2-0 home loss to Barry Town United.

During Paynter’s eight months at the helm, the Deesiders failed to make the Cymru Premier top six at the end of phase one, but have reached the Welsh Cup Final.

Former Port Vale, Leeds United and Swindon Town player Paynter, 40, was appointed in August 2024 after the departure of Neil Gibson.

After the failures of phase one, there was a management restructure at Nomads in February, with long-serving Jay Catton appointed first team manager, but Paynter continued in his head coach role.

On Sunday, the Nomads announced Paynter had left the club and made the following statement: “The Club would like to put on record their gratitude to Billy, taking on the challenge in August at a very difficult transitional time for The Nomads.

“However, failing to make the top six after Phase One and subsequent results in Phase Two, after significant investment, persuaded the Board to execute this change ahead of the JD Welsh Cup Final in early May, that could secure a European place.

“The club will announce a replacement in the next 72 hours.”