North Wales Crusaders have reappointed their former coach Anthony Murray, who will take charge with immediate effect.

The club have moved swiftly to replace Mike Grady following his departure from the League One club on Tuesday.

Murray enjoyed a successful spell in charge of the Cru between 2014-2016, leading the Crusaders to iPro Sport Cup success 2015 and the League One Shield final in 2016.

He will be aided by assistant coaches Jonny Leather and Alan Hadcroft as well as ex-Crusaders captain Stephen Wild who will return to the club as strength and conditioning coach.

Speaking about the appointment, Crusaders CEO Andy Moulsdale said: “We’re delighted to welcome Anthony Murray back to the club and look forward to working with him once again.

“He knows the club inside out and brought some great successes to Crusaders during his previous spell in charge. It was important that we brought in someone who understood the culture of the club and was on board with what we want to achieve going forward.

“It’s a very strong coaching team with great knowledge, experience and enthusiasm.

“Jonny will stay on at the club and be assistant coach, along with Alan, and continue his work. “The guys that are coming back are a massive reason why this club is still here today.

“Off the field, under difficult circumstances, Muzz [Anthony Murray] and Alan held it together, whilst on the field Stephen Wild was as good a leader as you’ll ever meet.

“I hope now they can help the club move forward in more settled times.

“I know that the supporters will get behind both him and the team as we aim for a successful 2018 season.”

Murray’s first game back in charge of the Crusaders comes on Good Friday as they travel to West Wales Raiders.