Roddy returns: Collins takes on Athlone job

After six months out of the game following Monaghan United's untimely demise, Roddy Collins has been unveiled as the new manager of First Division club Athlone Town.

The colourful Dubliner has been out of the game since Monaghan's surprise withdrawal from the league last June, but after holding talks with the midlanders last week has opted to make a return to life in the First Division.

Collins had been linked with the vacant roles at Dundalk and Limerick, but after being given a tour of both Athlone's facilities and the nearby IT campus, has agreed to a stint at Lissywoollen.

As soon as last Monday Collins admitted that he had applied for the job at Limerick, even suggesting that he could immediately make them title challengers with the resources at their disposal

Yet after being impressed by Athlone's vision, Collins decided to join the midlanders ahead of the 2013 season.

Speaking on the appointment, Athlone Town FC Chairman John Hayden stated “We are delighted to appoint Roddy early in the off-season as it allows him time to get to know the club, the region and importantly, time to build a competitive squad. It’s a significant statement of intent by Athlone Town to attract a manager of Roddy’s experience and profile.”

The job had attracted some interesting candidates, including a pair of former Irish internationals.