Duff is relishing big opportunity as new manager of Cheltenham

CHELTENHAM have announced Michael Duff as their new manager, bringing an end to the former Northern Ireland international’s 14-year stay at Burnley.

The ex-defender made more than 300 first-team appearances for the Robins and was part of the side that progressed from the Southern League to League One in five years.

He switched to Burnley in 2004, spending the remainder of his playing career at the Clarets before turning his hand to coaching two years ago.

Duff (below) was in charge of the Burnley Under-23 side, but will move back to Cheltenham as the permanent successor to Gary Johnson, who was sacked last month.

“I can’t wait to get started back at Cheltenham Town,” Duff said.

“It’s a big step for me to leave a job where I was settled, working with a great manager at a Premier League club, but I feel that the time is right now.

“It is a fantastic opportunity and I would like to thank the board for the faith that they have shown in me. I know they have worked very hard to get the deal done and I am very grateful.

“I only played professionally for two clubs, so Cheltenham Town is a club that I know well and one that is very close to my heart. It is also an opportunity to move my family back home and I’m looking forward to meeting the staff and players on Tuesday.”

Russell Milton had been in temporary charge following Johnson’s dismissal and won two of his three League Two games.