Decision on new Glenavon boss 'not too far away' - Best

Davy McDaid and Niall Quinn were part of an interim management team that took charge of Glenavon for their 3-1 loss against Portadown

Glenavon chairman Dr Stephen Best said that a decision on who will be the club's new manager "isn't too far away".

The Lurgan Blues parted ways with Paddy McLaughlin last weekend following a run of nine defeats to start the season.

An interim management team that included players Davy McDaid and Niall Quinn took charge for their 3-1 defeat against Portadown, their 10th straight loss which leaves the club rooted to the foot of the table.

And Best says the board will ensure they get the right person for the job to keep them in the Irish Premiership.

"We'll be thorough in the next stage of the process, making sure we bring in the right person to take us forward," he told BBC Sport NI.

"Our primary goal is to stay in this league, and for that, we need someone who knows the Irish League well and has the experience to steady things.

"There are some very capable people out there, and we'll make sure the appointment is the right one."

'The players and fans need clarity and direction'

Best added that it was a "difficult" decision to relieve McLaughlin of his duties but one that the board felt was "right for the club going forward".

Whilst he refused to be drawn on names that have been linked with the job such as Oran Kearney, Dean Shiels, Dean Smith and Darren Murphy, Best is confident they will swiftly find a candidate that aligns with the club on and off the pitch.

"At the moment, we're sitting down and carefully going through all of the candidates who have expressed interest," he continued.

"A decision isn't too far away, but it's important not to rush it. We need to make sure we get the right fit for the club, both in terms of personality and football philosophy.

"I suspect it'll take a bit of time, but not too long. We need to get someone in soon because we can't afford to be without leadership for an extended period.

"The players and the fans need clarity and direction. So, it'll be sooner rather than later."

'The lads have been brilliant' - McDaid

McDaid, who led the interim management team, credited the players and their attitude against Portadown after a difficult week at the club.

"It's been tough, no doubt. Pre-season was so positive after the way Paddy finished last year; everything felt good," he said.

"Then you start the season, and this league hits you - it's relentless. Nine games in, and Paddy loses his job; it's been a whirlwind. But credit to the lads, they've been brilliant.

"They've come in, worked hard and made it easy for me, Niall (Quinn) and the staff. I didn't expect anything less - they're an honest group who care deeply about the club.

"Nothing's going to change in a week - it'll take time. But if we keep getting that level of effort and work-rate, I'll have no complaints. The lads gave everything and that's all I can ever ask for."

McDaid acknowledged that the players have to take responsibility for McLaughlin's departure too after their poor performances this term.

"Looking back, I know I could have done more - that's me being honest. Paddy's a great manager, fantastic coach and a top person.

"Sometimes things in football just don't work out. It didn't this year for him or for us, but now it's about turning it around and putting things right."