Kenna appointed new Galway United manager

Galway United FC has today announced the appointment of Jeff Kenna as manager.

The former Republic of Ireland international will take immediate charge and has been given a three-year term deal.

A former captain of Blackburn Rovers, Derby County and Birmingham City and a Premiership winner with Blackburn, he will have his first match in charge on Friday night when Galway United play Bray Wanderers at Terryland Park.

Billy Clery, who has served as caretaker manager for the past few weeks, has been appointed assistant manager.

“I have been trying to get into the coaching and management side of things for the last season,” said Kenna.

“I am delighted and thrilled to be given this opportunity to work with the board and Galway United. There are some good young lads coming through. Hopefully I can add something to that and that can only benefit the club.”

Galway United chief executive Nick Leeson said: “This will signal a change of direction for the football club. We wanted a fresh approach, but not necessarily somebody steeped in League of Ireland tradition. I’m excited by the prospect of working with Jeff, as are the remainder of the board. Our season, I believe starts now.”

Galway United chairman John Fallon said: “Jeff is a proven leader of men. You have here a man who is prepared to back himself. That is what Galway United needs. The board has decided and will find the resources to strengthen the squad and that will be done at the earliest opportunity.”