DAMIEN RICHARDSON IS back in the Airtricity League saddle again. The 66-year-old has been named Drogheda United boss for the remainder of the season.
Drogs made the appointment official this evening and declared that Richardson ‘needs no introduction, having one of the best reputations in Irish football as a former player, manager and soccer pundit’.
However, to give him a brief introduction, the former Shamrock Rovers and Gillingham forward made three senior appearances for Ireland in the 1970s. His playing career ended in 1985 and his first post was back at Gillingham before he returned to Irish football. He has managed Cork City [twice], Cobh Ramblers, Shelbourne and Rovers. His coaching CV has one league win, a league cup and three FAI cups.
Darius Kierans, who was acting as caretaker manager, will stay on with the club to assist ‘Rico’. Club chairman Jim Agnew said, “Damien is someone who will bring the sort of experience and dedication that is required now.
“Everyone in the club looks forward to working with him and we feel sure that he and the team will have the full support of the fans until the end of the season.” For his part, Richardson commented:
I am delighted to become part of Drogheda United. It is a club that holds special memories for me as I made my debut playing for Shamrock Rovers against Drogheda as an 18 year old in the old Lourdes Stadium.
“Although much water has passed under the bridge, it has not diluted my love affair with League of Ireland football.”
Richardson will take his first training session with the club, at Mosney, on Monday evening. Drogheda are currently eighth in the league and beat Rovers 1-0 in Tallaght Stadium on Friday.
