Finn Harps manager appointment imminent, AGM hears

Finn Harps say they expect to announce a new manager in the next week.

Club Chairperson Ian Harkin told shareholders at Sunday's AGM in Ballybofey that the process of appointing a successor to Ollie Horgan is almost complete.

There were, he said, almost 50 applicants 'from all over Europe'.

Initially, the club's Board whittled those down to ten before a shortlist of three was drawn up.

“There are a few things to be worked through, but we hope to be able to make an announcement this week,” Harkin said.

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Horgan left the position after a memorable nine-year stint. After relegation from the Premier Division, Horgan vacated the hotseat.

Harkin said: “It was a very difficult year on the pitch and, after four years in the Premier Division, we are now preparing for the First Division.

“We reached the end of an era with Ollie Horgan's recent departure. In the nine years, we shared some amazing nights, including six years in the Premier Division.”

Outgoing secretary Kathy Taaffe also hailed Horgan's work ethic.

In reference to the deluge of departures from the squad at the end of 2021, she said: “Great teams and great players catch the eyes of other teams.”

The only day Taaffe had no contact from Horgan was Christmas Day. “Ollie was on the phone twice on Boxing Day,” she said. “He was just doing what he had to do.”

Shareholders were also briefed on the development of the new stadium with Harkin informing those in attendance that he expects contractors on site in March, 2023.

As well as the Board members, there were 25 shareholder present with a further six attending via Zoom.