Holleran brings in defensive reinforcements as Hood exits

As the Courier exclusively revealed online on Wednesday evening, club captain Hood has left the New Windmill after concerns about his work commitments led to a mutual parting of the ways.

Holleran admitted the departure of the 2011/12 Player of the Year and club captain left a huge hole.

However, in 22-year-old McCone and Green, 25, he says he has players who can go on to form the backbone of his side for years to come.

“Paul is a player who has been on the radar for the last 12 months,” said Holleran of the former Wolverhampton Wanderers youngster.

“He’s a super young defender who can play in a number of positions, has pace and reads the game well.

“He’s got all the attributes to go on to become a great player.

“Josh is a big, strong boy and both players are at the right age with plenty of experience.

“They’ll be two excellent signings.”

With Liam Daly and Richard Batchelor having also committed for the Conference North campaign this week, it marks a significant stepping up of Brakes’ summer dealings.

The duo swept the board at Saturday’s end-of-season awards presentation and Holleran said their decisions to remain at the New Windmill was great news for the club.

“I’m delighted to secure both their signatures,” said Holleran, who revealed talks were still ongoing with other key members of the championship-winning side.

“They were a large part of what we achieved last season with the added bonus that they contributed 25 goals between them.”

Goalkeeper Niall Cooper has also left Leamington after finding his playing opportunities limited during the second half of last season.

His departure leaves Brakes on the lookout for two keepers with Laurie Walker expected to stay at Brackley.