PONTYPOOL have been rocked by the news that club captain Matthew Taylor may be forced into retirement.

The influential skipper, who has steered his side to an impressive start to the Welsh First Division campaign, has been hampered by a long-running back injury for much of the season.

"Matthew has been happy to relinquish the captaincy because of this long-term injury, but he is staying involved with the club," team manager Tony Clark revealed.

But the signs don't look good for Taylor, who has enjoyed a fine career at club and representative level.

The back-row forward faces a long stint on the touchline and he is considering his future as a player.

"He is a marvellous asset to the club - fans can see that on a match day by the way he rallies the side," Clark added.

The news on Taylor comes as part of a double blow for the promotion hopefuls.

Ex-backs coach David Manley has cut all ties with the club in a move to rivals Merthyr.

The former player/coach had been relieved of his coaching duties, but Pontypool were keen for him to remain as a player.

However Manley was hungry for another player/coach role and has now taken up a position with Merthyr.

"We spoke to David and asked him three times to remain as a player with the club, but he wanted a different role," said Clark.

"I have signed the transfer forms and returned them to the Welsh Rugby Union. We would like to thank him for his services to the club and wish him all the best for the future," Clark added.

Byron Hayward remains as the club's temporary backs coach, a role he juggles with his duties as a player and fitness trainer, but Pontypool are now actively seeking a replacement for Manley and Clark revealed they had a number of Premiership hopefuls in mind.

"We will be advertising the position. We need a player/coach who is committed to the club 100%," Clark said.