EK hope to have new boss in by weekend

East Kilbride expect to have a new manager in place by the weekend as they look towards next season.

The reigning Lowland champions have attracted applications from all over the world, with managers currently coaching in Canada and Africa applying to replace Martin Lauchlan at the helm.

Kilby chairman Mark Horner and the club’s committee drew up a three-man shortlist earlier in the week and interviews have since been conducted with the candidates.

The new manager will be appointed in plenty of time for the club’s return to pre-season training at the end of the month and will take charge of his first match on Saturday, July 1 when Kilby host Beith Juniors in a friendly at K-Park.

A club spokesman told the News: “We fully expect to be in a position to announce our new manager by the weekend.

“We’ve had almost 20 applications for the role from all over the world.

“The level of experience the candidates boast is very strong and there have been a few exceptional candidates.

“We expect the appointment will have what the ability to take this club to the next level.”

Meanwhile, the new manager will have a new recruit in his squad after Kilby announced the signing of former Airdrie and Huddersfield Town striker Liam Coogans.

The 20-year-old was with Championship side Brechin last season, although he played no part in their promotion from League One.

His arrival came in the same week it was announced fullback Fabio Capuano has resigned for next term.

Skipper Barry Russell also committed his future to the club last week.