Kenny appointed new Dundalk manager
Credit:
Dundalk Football Club have today named former Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Kenny as their new manager.
Kenny replaces interim manager Darius Kierans whose contract was not renewed.
Speculation has been rife the past few weeks that the former Candystripes gaffer would take the reins and now he has officially signed on at Oriel Park on a two-year contract and will immediately set about assembling a squad for the new Airtricity League season.
The 41-year-old takes his first job back in management following his difficult spell at the Hoops where he only was in charge for nine months. His first management task came at the age of just 27 at Longford Town where he was a huge hit – winning promotion to the top flight and driving the club to an FAI Cup final. This success landed him a job at Bohemians in December 2001.
During this spell he would lead the Gypsies to the FAI Cup final in 2002 – only to be beaten by Dundalk - and also a league title in 2003. Kenny remained in charge until July 2004 when he became the manager of Derry City. The Candystripes is where he had significant success winning four EA Sports Cups, a First Division title and an FAI Cup in 2006 over two spells. He also had a spell in charge of Scottish side Dunfermline in 2006/07.
Dundalk have clearly stated their intention with the appointment and after such a disappointing season last term where they retained their Premier Division status through a playoff, and they will be hoping that the new appointment will bring a change in fortunes.
The Lilywhites have also stayed true to their promise of an experienced manager being brought in as Kenny represents not only an experienced man but also somewhat of a coup.
Dundalk club director Ciaran Bond said is delighted that they have got their man.
“As a club, we are thrilled to welcome Stephen Kenny as our new first-team manager. Stephen was our number one target from when we began the search for a new manager and we are delighted to be able to get him on board.”
The statement in full reads:
Dundalk Football Club are delighted to confirm the appointment of Stephen Kenny as first-team manager on a two-year contract.
The 41-year-old – who has delivered Premier Division, FAI Cup and League Cup success during over 600 games in management to date – completed the deal to become the Lilywhites’ new boss at Oriel Park on Wednesday evening.
The former Derry City, Longford Town, Bohemians, Dunfermline Athletic and Shamrock Rovers manager will be available to meet Dundalk supporters at a meet & greet session in the Lilywhite Lounge tomorrow night (Thursday) at 7.30pm.
Club Director Ciarán Bond added: “As a club, we are thrilled to welcome Stephen Kenny as our new first-team manager. Stephen was our number one target from when we began the search for a new manager and we are delighted to be able to get him on board.”
