This depends upon the space you have available.
The "normal" way is to remove the gearbox and extension shaft backwards into the inside of the car first , then take the engine out from the engine bay forwards.
Taking the two out as one unit forwards can be done but it involves a very big , heavy , and very awkward transit, and there is more possibility of damage as the whole assembly hitting something else on the way .
You can then replace the clutch more easily on the rear of the engine AND use the extension shaft to centralise the clutch before bolting up the pressure plate.
Regarding the release mechanism , there are a few watch points .:- Is the carbon disc on the aluminium cylinder worn , if in any doubt replace. Is there any noticeable play of the cylinder in the bell housing sleeve , if so get the bell housing machined and sleeved back to standard . Is the slot through which the bolt in the bottom of the cylinder operates worn? If so get a reinforcing strip attached (the machine shop should be able to do this . Lastly look very carefully at the operating linkage , the clevis pins and housing can be worn , the push rod can be bent out of line
There is a lot of detail here I appreciate , this is a job that is worth doing well once.
