King confirmed as new Dundalk manager

Dundalk FC have confirmed Noel King has been appointed as their new manager and will succeed Stephen O'Donnell at Oriel Park.

A statement released on the club website this afternoon said: “Dundalk FC is delighted to announce Noel King as the club’s new first-team manager.

“The 67-year-old had two spells at Oriel Park during a playing career that also saw him line out with clubs such as Shamrock Rovers, Bohemians, Derry City and French outfit Valenciennes.

“His first job in management came with Derry City in 1985 and he also held the reins at Shamrock Rovers, Limerick and Finn Harps.

“King spent eight years as manager of the Republic of Ireland women’s national team and a further eight with the men’s U21 side.

“In 2013, he had an interim spell in charge of the Republic of Ireland’s senior men’s team for games against Germany and Kazakhstan.

“After retiring from the U21s in 2018, King moved back to the women’s game, guiding Shelbourne to two WNL titles and an FAI Cup and most recently had a spell in charge of Home Farm.

“I’m delighted to be back at Dundalk and taking charge of one of Ireland’s biggest and most successful clubs is a real honour,” said Noel King.

“I can’t wait to get started and I’m looking forward to meeting up with the players and staff as soon as possible. I promise that no effort will be spared in the pursuit of success and trying to bring the glory days back to Oriel Park.

“It’s obviously a difficult time at the moment but I would ask everyone connected with the club to continue supporting the squad.”

Dundalk FC owner Brian Ainscough said: “From the moment the club started looking for a new manager, Noel was one of my top targets.

“The career he has had speaks for itself and his passion and hunger for the game is still very much there, believe me. I know in my heart and in my head that I have appointed the right man for the job ahead.”