Rovers get their man
Buckley meets Rovers fans during win over the Hoops
SLIGO Rovers announced the appointment of a new manager in Liam Buckley during the Bit O’Red’s 2-0 victory over Shamrock Rovers at The Showgrounds on Friday night.
In a statement, Sligo Rovers chairman Martin Heraghty said: “From the outset Liam was our number one choice for the role. His record is outstanding in the League of Ireland and the brand of football he brings with it is renowned. We’re delighted to reach agreement for him to join us.
“It’s our intention that 2019 is a big year for Sligo Rovers. We know this appointment will excite our supporters and the committee encourages everyone at the club to get behind Liam.
“To attract a manager of Li- am’s ability shows the potential at our club and we really feel he is the man to help us improve our league position for 2019 and bring exciting nights to The Showgrounds again.”
Liam’s coaching team will be confirmed at a later date.
Buckley’s appointment was met with a very positive reaction from Rovers fans, and the season ended on a positive note for everyone involved, with Rovers beating fierce rivals Shamrock Rovers 2-0 in the final game of the season.
That victory also helped Rovers overtake Derry City in the table, sealing a 7th place spot on the final day of the season.
Rovers fans are eager to see some of this season’s key figures such as Rhys McCabe and Lee Lynch signed up as soon as possible for next season, but it remains to be seen whether or not that will be the case.
There are currently ten players signed up for 2019; Mitchell Beeney, Luke McNicholas, Ed McGinty, Patrick McClean, Jack Keaney, John Mahon, Liam Kerrigan, Kris Twardek, David Cawley and Niall Morahan.
There is also an option on Mikey Drennan, who was a key figure in Rovers’ improved performances in the second-half of the season.
There has been much speculation over Buckley’s backroom staff, but that should be cleared up in the near future.
The majority of Rovers fans appear happy with Gerard Lyttle’s successor, who is under no illusions as to the enormity of the job he has ahead of him.
Buckley will be moving to Sligo for the job.