Kevin Deery is OFFICIALLY the new manager of Institute FC.

After a day of speculation, 'Stute's Board of Directors finally broke the news, as well as revealing that Paddy McLaughlin will be assistant to the former Trojans boss.

A statement released by the club read:

"The board are convinced that the combination of people who have a passion for football and experienced coaching staff will compliment the clubs desire to place a greater emphasis on youth development as the main route to providing a sustainable long term future for the club.

"The position attracted a number of highly motivated and able applicants and the decision was a difficult one to make.

"We would like to thank the other applicants for their interest in the club. They are good people with a love for football and would be an asset at any club. Nonetheless, the board had to make this difficult decision as our players deserve to have some clarity about the future direction of the club.

"We now hope to be able to focus on being competitive in the Championship next season and laying the foundations for a return to the Premiership as soon as possible.

"We need everyone to be on the same page and hope to develop a cooperative and supportive atmosphere at the club so that people want to become involved and enjoy what they do.

"That means everyone connected with the club including the board, the team managers and coaches, the players, our backroom staff, our volunteers and our supporters.

"We are confident that we have the right vision for the club and we will be working hard as a football family to make that vision a reality."

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