John Russell has been confirmed as Sligo Rovers' new manager on an 18-month deal.
Russell, 37, was interim boss at the Showgrounds following the departure of the long-serving Liam Buckley last month, taking charge for the win over Derry City and draw with UCD last Friday.
The Bit o'Red are next in action against Finn Harps after the mid-season break on Friday, June 18.
The Galwegian is no stranger to the club, having made over 130 appearances for Rovers during three spells starting in 2010 and the ex-midfielder played an influential role as Sligo claimed two FAI Cups and the EA Sports Cup over the next two seasons.
He then moved to St Pat's, where he won a League title, before returning to Sligo in 2014 and, over the next four seasons, helped the club win the Setanta Sports Cup and into European competition.
Russell left the Showgrounds again after the 2017 season for a full-time coaching and development role with the FAI as Regional Development officer for Sligo/Leitrim, then returned to Sligo as assistant boss ahead of the 2019 campaign.
‘’I am privileged and honoured to be appointed as first team manager of Sligo Rovers," said Russell.
"Sligo Rovers is the heartbeat of the community and I want all the supporters to know that I am determined to improve this team. I have a clear vision and strategy for the club going forward.
"I know first-hand the quality of players we have in our dressing room. This group has a real willingness to learn and improve.
"It’s an exciting time to be following Sligo Rovers with the league games resuming, European football next month, and the FAI Cup around the corner.
"We are all looking forward to the challenges ahead."
Sligo chairman Tommy Higgins added: ‘’We are thrilled to make this announcement this afternoon. After a rigorous recruitment process, we are fully satisfied that John is the right man to take us forward and lead us on our journey over the coming season and a half at least.
John knows the club inside out and has a great work ethic and passion for the club which stands out and his in-depth knowledge of our Academy, the local community and club as a whole, which will help him over the coming weeks and months.
John is a very driven individual and has shown great leadership in just a short time as interim manager.
"We are excited and looking forward to our future with John at the helm."
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