Russell lands Sligo Rovers job on a permanent basis

Sligo Rovers have appointed their interim manager John Russell on a permanent basis until the end of the 2023 season.

Russell succeeds Liam Buckley who parted company with the Bit O' Red.

The man at the helm was assistant to Buckley during his four years in Sligo.

The 37-year-old had taken the team on an interim basis for our previous two fixtures with a win over Derry City and a draw with UCD last Friday night in Dublin.

Russell’s first competitive game in charge will take place against Finn Harps on 18 June at The Showgrounds at 7.45pm.

The Galway native enjoyed an 18 year-long playing career in which he made over 130 appearances for Sligo in three spells starting in 2010

The signing proved to be a major part in the club’s success in his first two seasons at the club, with Russell winning The FAI Cup & EA Sports Cup in 2010 and another FAI Cup in 2011.

Russell worked as a development officer for the FAI in the region before linking up with Buckley.

He said: '’I am privileged and honoured to be appointed as first team manager of Sligo Rovers. 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 said that after an extensive search, interim boss Russell was the best candidate to lead the club forward

He added: ‘’We are thrilled to make this