Dundalk assistant manager Vinny Perth signs new long-term deal

Dundalk assistant manager Vinny Perth has signed a long-term contract to go full-time with the Lilywhites and give Stephen Kenny’s side a major boost as the European fixtures approach.

Perth and Kenny’s working relationship stretches right back to when Perth played under Kenny at Longford Town, winning two FAI Cups and a League Cup.

The well-known League of Ireland defender began his management career at Longford Town before taking the reins at Malahide United.

He has been working as Kenny’s right hand man since Kenny took over as manager of Dundalk ahead of the 2013 season, bringing major success to the club in recent seasons.

“It’s a big decision for me and my family to move from full-time employment to full-time football,” Perth told the club website.

“I am five-and-a-half years at the club. Ultimately I want to thank Stephen in particular. He brought me in from non-league football when he came in and he has backed my personal development.

“He has given me time to grow and allowed me to become the coach I am today. He and the club feel that I have justified this deal. That means a lot.

“I have worked with some amazing players over the past five and a half years. You are only as good as the people you work with.

“Stephen has been like a big brother to me. I have had the best seat in the house in Irish football for the last five-and-a-half years. It has been some journey and I really want to thank Stephen for that.

“We are a full-time club now. We are looking to kick on. We are seeing the benefit of being full-time. It is midseason.

“Things have gone quite well. We have brought in some new players. They are very exciting. The future is bright at Dundalk.”