GARETH Owen is dreaming of leading Airbus UK Broughton into Europe after returning to the Airfield as head coach.

The former Wrexham midfielder has replaced Darren Ryan, who quit the Wingmakers last month.

Owen, who had a three-year spell as player/manager at Airbus from 2005 to 2008, return to the Airfield following a stint with Rhyl.

He will link up with director of football Craig Harrison and, crucially, his appointment means Airbus meet the Welsh Premier League’s licensing criteria as Owen is a fully-qualified Uefa coach.

The 39-year-old Deesider said: “I’ve enjoyed three years at Rhyl and now look forward to the challenge of working in the WPL again with a club that’s challenging for Europe.

“I had a great working relationship with the club and Craig previously and aim to build on that.

“It was difficult to turn down the chance of European football three years ago with Rhyl as a player. Now with Airbus as head coach, hopefully European football will be at the Airfield in the not too distant future.”

Owen’s arrival means Roger Preece has left the Airfield but Andrew Thomas stays as on assistant coach.

Former Airbus boss Ryan left Airbus last month to become manager of Newtown but spent just 17 days with the Robins before joining Northwich Victoria as assistant boss.