McAree moves into frame for Coleraine job
COLERAINE have made Dungannon Swifts boss Rodney McAree their number one target to replace Oran Kearney in the hotseat at the Showgrounds.
It is understood that McAree has been approached and a full-time post as boss is on the table.
Having lost their Irish Cup winning manager to Scottish Premiership outfit St Mirren, the Bannsiders board are determined to bring in someone who can take charge of the club with minimum disruption to the dressing room and what Kearney built, and see McAree as the leading candidate.
Last season 44-year-old McAree, having guided Dungannon to League Cup glory and their first senior trophy, had the opportuni- ty to become the new Glentoran supremo following the sacking of Gary Haveron in February but opted to stay put, signing a new threeyear deal with Dungannon. McAree and Dungannon Swifts go together like fish and chips and have what many feel is an unbreakable bond, leaving the former Fulham midfielder with a tough decision to make because being at the Coleraine helm right now is an extremely attractive proposition. The Irish Cup success in May came after an exhilarating league campaign when they only lost once and were pipped to the title on the final day by the brilliance of Crusaders. This season they are unbeaten in the Danske Bank Premiership after five games and are three points behind leaders Linfield with a match in hand.
There has been no shortage of interest in the post since Kearney was appointed at St Mirren last Friday. Coleraine chairman Colin McKendry revealed that applications have come in from across the world though the club made it clear their new boss must have an extensive knowledge of the Irish League, be an excellent communicator, and have a keen understanding of youth development. McAree fits the bill.
Earlier this week Derry City boss Kenny Shiels distanced himself from the job. Others mentioned include former Northern Ireland skipper, Coleraine native Steve Lomas and Paddy McLaughlin, who has done an exceptional job at Institute. Former Derry City manager Declan Devine and ex-Cliftonville boss Gerard Lyttle are also in the mix.
McAree’s dad Joe is a legend at Dungannon Swifts for his efforts in inspiring it to senior status.
It was a big moment for the town when Rodney followed in his father’s footsteps to become boss in 2015 after serving as a player andcoach.
When Glentoran came calling it was McAree’s loyalty to football in Dungannon that saw him stay where he was. The sense that there was too much uncertainty surrounding the Oval outfit then also played a part in his decision.
Coleraine are hoping McAree sees things differently at the Showgrounds and feel a full-time contract as manager is an appealing package.
The backroom team are primed to take charge of Saturday’s league trip to Ards but Coleraine want a new boss in place for next weekend’s mouthwatering home clash with Linfield.