Advertisement
Callaghan with his assistant Owen Heary at Dalymount today. ©INPHO/Donall Farmer
consolidation

New Bohs boss to focus on youth policy

Aaron Callaghan believes stability at Dalymount Park is key before the club can move forward.

NEW BOHEMIANS MANAGER Aaron Callaghan will focus on blooding young players in the upcoming campaign as the club cannot compete with the Airtricity League’s top payers.

The 45-year-old was introduced to the press alongside assistant Owen Heary, who will remain a player, at Dalymount Park earlier today and explained that the Gypsies will look to consolidate last season’s league position this time around.

The north Dublin club’s financial problems have been well-documented and only last month they sealed an agreement with Zurich Bank to restructure their loans.

While there is still plenty of work to be done in recruiting players for the Premier Division kicks off in March, it will no doubt be a youthful squad.

Seven of the young senior players have been re-signed while half a dozen of the current U19s crop are likely to be promoted.

“We are not in a position to compete with other clubs on salaries,” Callaghan, who took over after Pat Fenlon left for SPL side Hibernian, said on the Bohemians website.

We’re selling the Bohemians brand and our coaching method to players – the model that we will put in place will entice players to the club.”

As one of the league’s most experienced defenders, Heary will have plenty of wisdom to offer his team-mates and he believes Bohs will attract players between 17-23 who are seeking a break in Ireland’s top tier.

“For the younger players the attraction is playing first-team football,” said Heary.

“The fans will need to be patient. We might not get the results but the lads will play for the jersey and give everything for the jersey.”

New Royal: Sheppard departs Hoops for Reading

The Departures Lounge: your daily transfer gossip round-up