NORTHERN IRELAND STAR Jim Magilton has joined Shamrock Rovers’ backroom staff on a temporary basis, the Tallaght club confirmed in a statement this morning.
Hoops boss Michael O’Neill called upon his former international team-mate and friend to assist with the day-to-day running of the first team following the shock departure of assistant manager Trevor Croly last week.
Magilton, who has managed Ipswich Town and QPR since hanging up his boots in 2006, will remain with the Airtricity League Champions until a suitable replacement for Croly is appointed permanently.
“I thought Jim’s other commitments in Northern Ireland and the UK would prevent him helping me at this crucial stage of the season,” O’Neill said this morning.
“I was delighted when he said he would assist me until I find the right candidate for the job on a permanent basis.
He brings not only a wealth of knowledge and experience of the game at the highest level, but he is someone I trust implicitly, and that was a key factor in my decision.
This morning’s announcement comes at a crucial time in Rovers’ season. The league leaders travel north to face rivals Derry in the Brandywell on Friday night before departing for Estonia on Sunday ahead of next week’s Champions League clash against FC Flora Tallinn.
