Mathews appointed to Shelbourne post

Alan Mathews has been appointed manager of Shelbourne FC, it was announced today.

"Being a First Division club, we are particularly delighted to have secured the services as manager of someone who has a proven track record of success in the Premier Division," said a club statement.

"Alan's objective is, as one would expect, to return the club to Premier Division status as quickly as possible and through achieving on-field success."

"While that is still a possibility for the current season, the time horizon agreed by the board of management with Alan goes beyond this season."

"The club would like to express its sincere gratitude to the previous management team of Dermot Keely and Collie O'Neill. But for bad luck, the club would already be returned to the Premier Division.

"Dermot Keely is remaining on in the club and is taking on the role of community development officer, with emphasis on developing Shelbourne's underage section."

Mathews has previously managed Longford Town, Cork City and Drogheda United.