Old Albanian RFC has been quick to respond to the setback of its recent points deduction and subsequent relegation by announcing a new senior coaching set-up for next season.

James Shanahan makes a welcome return to the club to apply his inspirational leadership style to the first XV. Shanahan masterminded OA’s first promotion into National League One and will hope to steer them back to the third tier of English rugby for a second time.

Sam Townsend makes the journey back across the city from Verulamians to head up the OA’s second team, the Romans, who reached the County Cup final at Allianz Park only to be beaten by Letchworth.

The senior coaching team is completed by Harry Harrison, who will continue to nurture the club’s future talent in the form of the Colts, and Ed Panting, OA’s new youth development coach.