Kearney finally takes up Saints hot seat

Oran Kearney believes there was an element of fate in him being appointed new St Mirren manager.

The 40-year-old was interviewed for the post in the summer, but lost out to Alan Stubbs who was appointed as Jack Ross’s replacement.

However, after Stubbs departed the Paisley club on Monday after only four Ladbrokes Premiership games, the Buddies board returned to Coleraine for Kearney, a school teacher.

The Northern Irishman, who led the Bannsiders to the Irish Cup last season while taking his side to second in the Irish Premiership, was glad to accept the St Mirren job on a three-year deal.

Speaking to stmirren.com, Kearney said: “It’s been a rollercoaster 72 hours to be honest. It’s all been very surreal.

“I had an interview in the summer that went well and I got a really good feeling about the people in charge at the club.

“I didn’t get the job at that point, but I said what’s for you won’t go by you and here I am.

“There were a few things I had to sort out, but I feel at this stage it’s the right move for me and I can’t wait to get started.”

St Mirren chief executive Tony Fitzpatrick said: “We are absolutely delighted to have Oran in as our new manager.

“He is a highly impressive individual and I look forward to working with him.”

Kearney’s first match in charge will be a home Ladbrokes Premiership clash against Celtic next Friday night.

Picture: PA. Oran Kearney has been named the new boss of St Mirren.