Oran Kearney named new Ballymena United manager as former player returns to lead club

Oran Kearney, appointed Ballymena United first team manager

Ballymena United Football Club has confirmed the appointment of Oran Kearney as the club’s new first team manager, marking a significant moment for the Sky Blues as they look to strengthen their position heading into the second half of the season.

Kearney, 47, brings extensive managerial expertise to the Ballymena Showgrounds following successful spells at Limavady United, Coleraine and Scottish Premiership side St Mirren.

The appointment also represents a homecoming of sorts, with the former midfielder having played under Kenny Shiels during a three-year stint at the club between 2002 and 2005, making 121 appearances and scoring 34 goals.

Experienced Backroom Team Joins Kearney

Supporting Kearney in the dugout will be an experienced backroom team. Former Cliftonville midfielder Barry Johnston has been appointed assistant manager, arriving from his managerial role at Lisburn Distillery.

Goalkeeping coach Michael Doherty also joins the Showgrounds staff, having previously worked alongside Kearney at Coleraine.

‘A real urgency to want to do well’ — Kearney

Reflecting on his appointment, Kearney said:

“I’m very excited, it’s been a whirlwind week. There’s a real urgency to want to do well and a desire for success. It’ll be a challenge, but I think this club has the infrastructure, the fan base and a lot of good things going for it.”

He added:

“We will look to develop a relationship with the players and try and put my stamp on things as soon as possible. Everybody starts on a clean slate, it’s up to players to impress in training to get into the team and move us forward.

“I had an enjoyable time here as a player and in recent days a lot of those emotions have come back from my time playing here. I urge the fans to get behind me and the players and push us on for this second half of the season.”

Upcoming Fixtures

Kearney will take charge of his first match next Saturday (13 December) as Ballymena United travel to Portadown.

His first home game back at the Showgrounds will follow the week after against Carrick Rangers. Supporters can purchase tickets at the club’s official website.