INCOMING Accrington Stanley owner Dave O’Neill is confident that manager John Coleman can cope with a reduced budget for next season.

Stanley have had to cut their wage bill by 25 per cent and a disappointed Coleman had suggested the club would be in for another relegation fight.

But O’Neill, who is currently the club’s general manager but drew up the budget as he prepares for his imminent takeover from chairman Eric Whalley, said: “He was a bit despondent about it but before he went off on holiday he was upbeat again and saying it’s a new challenge for him, not only to keep the club in the league but to do it on a lower budget.

"He felt capable of doing it.

“He will look round for a few more Jimmy Ryans, players who might have been under par at other clubs but who we can get the best out of.

“I’ve not been involved for all of the 10 years he has been here, but from the job he’s done I’m sure he’s capable of it.”