Eager Laws ‘can’t wait’ to get started at Hoops

Brian Laws will make his first appearance as interim Shamrock Rovers manager at a press conference in Tallaght this afternoon ahead of Saturday’s EA Sports Cup final against Drogheda United.

Laws has been appointed with the title of director of football at Rovers but the club has confirmed that, as the short-term successor to Stephen Kenny, he will be in charge of the first team from now until the end of the season.

The former Burnley and Scunthorpe United boss also had a distinguished playing career making over 100 appearances each for Burnley, Middlesbrough and Nottingham Forest. Rovers chairman, Jonathan Roche said: “We have six important league games and the EA Sports Cup final coming up over the next month and a half, and Brian is coming in to help the existing backroom staff to do as well as possible in those games. Bringing Brian in also gives the club some breathing space to take our time to pick the next manager. Brian’s experience will help us in the short term. He has recruited many players from Ireland so he is not a stranger to the league.”

Speaking of his new task, Laws said: “I am delighted to be joining Shamrock Rovers and look forward to working with the chairman, board of directors, players, staff and supporters to move the club forward into a new era.

“I have significant managerial experience having taken charge of over 800 league games in all four divisions in England. I aim to bring that experience with me to advise, guide and lead the club’s short-term strategy. My strengths include getting to know clubs from top to bottom and leading change where necessary, identifying and building on the club’s strengths, culture and brand. I can’t wait.”