“100% best man for the job” – Llanelli Town fans react as Lee John returns

Llanelli Town manager Lee John poses with the Cymru South trophy

Lee John has returned to Llanelli Town as supporters welcome the former boss back to the club and wish him luck ahead of a difficult task in the Cymru South.

John is back in the dugout after a spell with Afan Lido, having previously guided the Reds to the Cymru South title in the 2024/25 season and secured promotion to the top-flight.

His return comes as Llanelli look to stop the rot and avoid a second successive relegation. The Reds were relegated from the Cymru Premier last season after parting company with John midway through the campaign.

Former Cardiff City and Wales defender Terry Boyle replaced him, but managed just one victory in 23 games in charge.

John now faces the challenge of rebuilding momentum in the Cymru South and helping Llanelli get their season back on track.

His first game back in charge will be away to Pontypridd United on Friday, October 30, as the returning boss looks to make an immediate impact.

Llanelli Town's Dylan Blain and Lee John with the Cymru South title
Lee John (R) and his assistant Dylan Blain (L) guided Llanelli Town to the Cymru South title in 2024/25.

Llanelli Town fans welcome Lee John back to the club

News of John’s return prompted a positive reaction from supporters on social media, with many welcoming him back and expressing their belief that he is the right man to lead the Reds forward.

Carl Jancy Jones wrote: “All the best Johno. Back where you belong!”

Fan group The 1893 Reds also welcomed the appointment, posting: “Welcome back Johno.”

Gareth V Bassett simply said: “Great stuff.”

Ray Jones added: “Good news and good luck,” while Jayden Luckett wrote: “Welcome back Lee John. Great to have you back mate.”

There was also encouragement from Daemon Eveleigh, who said: “Welcome back and good luck..Your going to need it.”

Despite the difficult situation facing the club, the messages reflected the support John retains among sections of the Llanelli fanbase.

Supporters back John to turn around Reds’ fortunes

Others focused on the size of the challenge awaiting John, with Llanelli needing to improve after a difficult start to their Cymru South campaign.

Jeff Smith described the appointment as exactly what the club needed, writing: “This is amazing news – just what the Club need following a poor start to the season!

“Wishing Lee and his backroom staff well for the season ahead.”

Former general manager Jordan Fox also offered his backing, describing John as the “man for the job”.

Tony Allender acknowledged the scale of the task but expressed hope that the club would give the returning manager the backing he needs.

“Lee, you have an almost impossible job keeping us up, let’s hope that the board keeps faith in you unlike last season. If anyone can do it, it’s you! Welcome back pal!” he said.

Kevin Dalling also wished John well, adding: “Good luck Lee if you’re passion is anything to go by you will turn it around.”

Sean Andrews echoed calls for the manager to be properly supported, writing: “Hopefully get instant bounce good luck and hope ur supported fully and allowed all control.”

Stephen Thomas also made his feelings clear, saying: “Great to have him back.shouldn’t have been sacked in the first place.”

Nathan Logan of Baglan Dragons FC celebrates after scoring during the 2024/25 JD Cymru South fixture between Baglan Dragons FC and Caerau Ely
Former Llanelli Town player Nathan Logan backed the appointment. (Pic by Geraint Nicholas/FAW)

Former Llanelli attacker hints at possible return

Among the reactions was a conversation involving former Llanelli player Nathan Logan, who represented the club between 2019 and 2023.

Logan, who scored 19 goals and registered seven assists in 66 Cymru South appearances, backed John’s return, writing: “100% best man for the job.”

His comment prompted a response from Jac Griffiths, who asked: “Surely you’ve got one more rodeo in the old knee my brother.”

Logan replied: “who knows my mate,” leaving the door open to speculation about a possible return to playing, although no formal move was confirmed.

Elsewhere, Twitter user 66Mogs welcomed the appointment, writing: “Welcome back Lee

“Huge task ahead but onwards and upwards.”

John’s first match back in charge will provide an early indication of the task facing the returning manager, with Llanelli travelling to Pontypridd United on Friday, October 30.

With supporters already expressing their backing, the focus will now turn to whether John can inspire an improvement in results and give the Reds fresh hope of turning their season around.