NEWPORT County AFC are set to announce John Sheridan’s successor as manager at 12pm today – just over 24 hours before tomorrow’s crucial League Two relegation battle at York City.

Sheridan’s assistant Warren Feeney is the man expected to be unveiled to the media at the midday press conference, with Mike Flynn likely to stay on as first team coach.

Feeney, who left his role as manager of Linfield in his native Northern Ireland to become number two at Rodney Parade in October, has received the backing of Sheridan.

And the Argus understands that the Exiles players, who are also preparing to face Blackburn Rovers at home in the rearranged FA Cup third round tie on Monday night, would be fully supportive of Feeney and Flynn taking charge.

Feeney is now 1/12 odds-on favourite to become the next permanent County boss with bookies Sky Bet.

James Beattie, who has been consistently linked with the post over the last 12 months, is 25/1.

In a statement released on Wednesday night the Exiles interim board said they were 'disappointed' with Oldham Athletic's conduct during the process of Sheridan's move to Boundary Park.

County say they are 'considering their position' in relation to the Latics' move for Sheridan.

The club statement reads: “Further to the statements issued by the board on Tuesday, Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, the club can now confirm that manager John Sheridan has left his post with immediate effect, joining Sky Bet League One side Oldham Athletic.

“The board of directors would like to put on record their thanks for the work John has done during his brief spell at the club.

“During his time with us John has helped to guide the club out of the relegation places in Sky Bet League Two, while progressing the club to the third round of the FA Cup for the first time in 30 years.

“While John leaves with our best wishes, we are disappointed with the way that Oldham Athletic have conducted themselves during this process and are considering our position.

“An announcement on the successor will be made on Friday.”

Oldham say they consider the matter closed but the County board are expected to update fans on what action they will take, if any, at today’s press conference.

The club chairman, directors and chief executive have been unavailable to comment in the past two days when contacted by the Argus.