RODDY COLLINS HAS been appointed manager of Athlone Town.
Collins takes immediate control of the first team and replaces Padraig Moran who stepped in as interim manager in August.
“We are delighted to appoint Roddy early in the off-season as it allows him time to get to know the club, the region and importantly, time to build a competitive squad,” chairman John Hayden said this morning.
It’s a significant statement of intent by Athlone Town to attract a manager of Roddy’s experience and profile.
The move is a significant coup for Athlone who finished sixth in the Airtricity League First Division last season, a distant 21 points off the promotion play-off places.
After guiding Monaghan United back to the Premier Division in 2011, Collins started 2012 with top-flight survival as his main priority but lost his job when finances forced Mons to pull out of the league in June.
Athlone’s statement added: “Collins’ decision to take on this new challenge is a testament to the potential at Ireland’s oldest League club. As the club’s chosen candidate, we are sure that all Athlone Town fans will give him their full support.
“The club would like to thank all candidates who expressed an interest in the position and wish them every success in the future.”
