Doolin faces his "toughest job to date"

Paul Doolin was officially unveiled as Cork City's new manager in a press conference, this afternoon proclaiming "this will be my toughest job in management so far.

"I spoke to Tom last weekend and I came down on Monday. He's been very good so far and seems genuine. It's a new beginning for Cork City.

"We don't really know each other and we'll need to build a relationship but he wants to take the club in the right direction" said the 45-year-old Dubliner.

He was also keen to state the importance in signing several players before the transfer deadline of February 2nd.

"We've 9 players currently signed on for next season but that's not enough. I'd hope to have 17 full-time players as well as some of the good youngsters already at the club, come the start of the season.

"I've made enquiries but we're behind already and we'll need to move fast"

With the recent news that Colin Healy will remain on Leeside for another two years, the new man at the helm is positive that the club will field a strong team when the season kicks off in March.

"The 9 or 10 lads that we have are the bones of a decent squad. There's still a few position's that need to be filled but hopefully the younger players will step up too. If you want to be up there (in the league), you'll have to have good players." added the former Shamrock Rovers and Shelbourne player.

"I think this year we'll see something different in the league to what we've had the last few years. Bohs' probably have the strongest squad as they haven't lost too many. St. Pats might still stay full-time despite what they're saying and they will be there or thereabouts, as will Derry." added the most successful manager in the country in the past few years.

The Dubliner also sights renovating the clubs training facilites as something which is high on his lit of priorities.

"I'm not one for club cars and all that stuff. I think what's most important is having a good training ground.

"Tom has the decorator's out there now doing the place up but its badly needed as I wouldn't expect any team to train in its current state"

When asked about his priorities for the season ahead, the 6 times league winner (5 as a player) stated that qualifying for Europe was on top of his list, as well as a challenge for the title.

"It won't be easy but I hope we'll challenge in the league as well as the FAI Cup and Setanta Cup, but Europe is the main priority really.

"This is the first year in five that the club won't be in Europe and I'm sure when the summer comes around it'll be missed."

Despite the outlook on the league at present being cynical to say the least, Doolin believes that he can win over the Cork fans

"You can understand their worries but the only way for them to come to games is if the team is doing well."