Noel King on taking charge in Dundalk: ‘I promise that no effort will be spared in the pursuit of success and trying to bring the glory days back to Oriel Park.’

Noel King

Noel King Credit: Eddie Lennon (ETPhotos)

Noel King is relishing the challenge as new Dundalk manager.

“I’m delighted to be back at Dundalk and taking charge of one of Ireland’s biggest and most successful clubs is a real honour,” said Noel King speaking to Dundalkfc.com.

“I can’t wait to get started. I promise that no effort will be spared in the pursuit of success and trying to bring the glory days back to Oriel Park.”

Dundalk remain rooted to the bottom of the table but can take heart from a 1-1 draw in Sligo on Friday night prior to King’s appointment. That was their third draw, to go with two defeats, from their last five games.

“It’s obviously a difficult time at the moment but I would ask everyone connected with the club to continue supporting the squad.”

During his playing career King had two spells at Oriel Park, along with time spent with Shamrock Rovers, Bohemians, Derry City and French side Valenciennes.

He began his managerial career with Derry City in 1985 and had spells with Shamrock Rovers, Limerick and Finn Harps before moving into roles with the FAI.

He spent eight years as manager of the Republic of Ireland women’s national team and a further eight with the men’s U21 side.

In 2013, he had an interim spell in charge of the Republic of Ireland’s senior men’s team for games against Germany and Kazakhstan.

After retiring from the U21s in 2018, King moved back to the women’s game, guiding Shelbourne to two League of Ireland titels and an FAI Cup. 



Dundalk’s owner Brian Ainscough said: “From the moment the club started looking for a new manager, Noel was one of my top targets.

“The career he has had speaks for itself and his passion and hunger for the game is still very much there, believe me.

“I know in my heart and in my head that I have appointed the right man for the job ahead.”

About Macdara Ferris

Macdara Ferris is a contributor since 2007 to Hoops Scene (Shamrock Rovers' match day programme) and is the co-author of two books on Shamrock Rovers - 'Tallaght Time: Shamrock Rovers 2009 to 2012' (with Karl … View Full Profile