Dave Rogers confirmed as new manager of Finn Harps

Dave Rogers has replaced Ollie Horgan as manager of Finn Harps.

Horgan's nine-year stint as Harps boss ended last month after he departed the club by mutual consent.

Horgan twice got Harps promoted to the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division, often keeping the Donegal outfit in the top division against the odds.

Former Shelbourne, Drogheda United, St Pat's, Derry City and Dundalk defender Rogers arrives in Donegal from Nottingham Forest, where he served as the club's U-21s manager.

Rogers joins the club from Premier League club Nottingham Forest, where he was U21 manager, replacing former Republic of Ireland international Andy Reid, who was promoted by Steve Cooper into the first team.

The 47-year-old has also previously worked with the Liverpool FC International Academy in America, South Korea and India, and also managed in India with DSK Shivajians FC, and more recently in America with FC Arizona.

"Once the board made initial contact I could sense and feel the passion and pride they have in taking the club forward both on and off the pitch and also to speak and deal with positive and realistic football people was a big factor," said Rogers.

"The fact that I’m signing a long-term contract and basing myself permanently in Donegal shows the ambition and vision and commitment of both myself and the board of directors to create a real culture and identity for Finn Harps FC and along with a thriving academy, continuing to implement an array of structures and foundations to enable short term gains and long-term stability.

"Ballybofey has always been a tough ground to play at and the fans and community have always displayed fantastic energy and support towards the players and staff so I’m proud to be tasked with delivering a brand