WINSFORD have postponed a decision on who should be Eddy Haslam’s permanent successor as manager.

In a statement, Blues confirmed that Rob Byrne, the departed boss’ number two this season, and coach Kevin Bircumshaw would together pick the team for matches in the coming weeks.

Whether they continue to do so beyond then will depend on results on the pitch.

“We believe we’re in a false position in the table,” said chairman Mark Loveless.

“The squad is a good one, and the players want to stay and try to take us up the standings.

“Rob and Kevin will work on a week-by-week basis, and the club will make a decision early in the New Year as to what will happen for the remainder of the season.”

Winsford have lost six of their past seven matches in the North West Counties League’s Premier Division, slipping into the relegation zone following last Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat against fellow strugglers Bacup.

Loveless told the Guardian afterwards it was one of the worst performances he had seen by a team in blue since they were previously demoted to the league’s second tier in 2003.

The only side with a worse results record to date, rock-bottom Wigan Robin Park, visit Barton Stadium this Saturday.

Blues were 3-1 victors against the same opponents on the campaign’s opening afternoon back in August.

“There is half of the season left and we’re confident we can finish in the table’s top half,” added Loveless.

Byrne plans to meet supporters before Saturday’s game during a forum in the social club.

After that he will attempt to deliver a first home league win in two months.

He said: “This group of young players is talented, and they’ve produced some wonderful football to watch at times.

“However with that has come inconsistency that proven costly; we haven’t taken enough points from those matches we’ve dominated.

“The spirit in the changing room remains upbeat, and the lads are determined to dig deep to get the results we need to climb the table.

“With games in hand, our destiny is in our own hands.”