Sligo delay naming new manager

Overwhelmed not just by the number, but by the calibre of those interested in the post, Sligo Rovers have extended the deadline in its search for a new manager until Monday.

The club had initially announced yesterday as the closing date for applications from those hoping to succeed Paul Cook, who left to join English League Two side Accrington Stanley. But, with over 40 applications already in, and more expected, the club won’t be in a position to name its new manager until late next week.

Among highly regarded out of work League of Ireland managers such as John McDonnell and Damien Richardson, the club has also received CVs from people who have managed in every professional league in Britain, including the Premier League.

Former England international midfielder Brian Little, who won the English League Cup in 1996 during his four years as Aston Villa boss, has applied as have ex-Luton Town boss Mike Newell and former West Ham star Julian Dicks.

Willie McStay, who successfully managed the club in the 1990s, and assistant manager Gerry Carr, are also in the running.

Despite some speculation, no approach has been made to Roddy Collins, now in charge of Monaghan United.

Having recently lost last season’s topscorer Graham Cummins to Preston, Cork City yesterday moved to replace him with the signing of striker Tadhg Purcell on loan from Northampton Town.

Purcell, who previously played with Shamrock Rovers and UCD, has signed until the end of June. The 27-year-old left Rovers to join Darlington, scoring nine times in 22 appearances, before moving to Northampton in the summer of 2010.

“Tadhg will be coming in next week,” said Cork boss Tommy Dunne. “Obviously, we were looking to add another striker to the squad as we were a bit thin up top. He is a good finisher and he gives us another option up front, so I’m pleased to have signed him.”

Tallaght Stadium has been pencilled in as the venue for the Setanta Sports Cup final for the next two years, provided two Airtricity League sides qualify for the decider, the competition’s organisers announced yesterday.

Should the final be contested by any team from the Carling Irish Premiership, Windsor Park will be the venue for the final.