PLAYER recruitment will be the priority for new Celtic Crusaders head coach Brian Noble.

The Welsh club confirmed one of the worst-kept secrets in rugby league yesterday when the 48-year-old former Wigan and Great Britain coach was unveiled at a Press conference at the Celtic Manor Hotel.

Noble, who left Wigan 12 days ago, admits the Crusaders coaching team are facing a big task and has drawn up a “shopping list” after inheriting a squad of around 10 contracted players.

“I see it as nearly a blank piece of paper,” he said.

“We need to be patient but we need to hit the ground running.

“We’re behind the eight-ball in relation to recruitment.

“That is our top priority for the next few weeks but the final pieces of our team may not come together until January.

“We’ve certainly got enough contacts within the game and, should the plates that are spinning drop our way, we’ll be competitive and that’s all you can ask.

“We’re at the back of the queue unfortunately but we’ll cobble something together that is very competitive.”