Downes opens up about Rooney's Edgar Street exit

Aaron Downes has spoken about Adam Rooney leaving Hereford to rejoin Paul Caddis

Aaron Downes says Adam Rooney’s departure from Hereford was handled amicably after the former striker was given the opportunity to pursue a new role.

Striker Rooney, who had been a player-coach since Downes's arrival last month, left the Bulls to rejoin Paul Caddis at King’s Lynn Town.

Downes said the decision was made following an honest conversation between the pair, and he isn't looking to add another coach to the ranks.

“Roons is a friend of mine – we played together, I'm not going to tell you how many years ago, but we go back a long way,” he said.

“I've got a good relationship with Adam. There was a very amicable conversation between us. It was straightforward; it was an opportunity he wanted to explore.

“I said he’s been great since I’ve been in and I’d like to keep you, but I’m not going to stand in your way."

Downes added that he, chairman Chris Ammonds and Rooney agreed that the move was the right thing for the Irishman and his family.

Despite Rooney’s departure, Downes says he is happy with the coaching staff currently at the club, which consists of his assistant Harry Pell and goalkeeping coach Shaun Edwards.

He praised Edwards for his knowledge of the non-league scene, and he is "blessed" to have him as part of the backroom team.

On Pell, who made 60 appearances for the Bulls between 2011 and 2013 during the club’s final seasons in the Football League, Downes said: "I'm very happy he's come with me. 

"He's got a spring in his step because he's at a club he loves and he's got a good affiliation with, but he's also doing something he didn't sort of think he would enjoy, but he's actually thriving.

"He's doing really well.

"I'm really pleased with the staff I've got at the minute."