Irish Premiership champions Larne have announced the arrival of former Linfield and Shamrock Rovers ace Alan Mannus as the club's new goalkeeping coach. The 42-year-old comes in to replace Alan Blayney who spent five years at Inver Park.

Mannus retired from playing in November 2023, bringing the curtain down on a hugely successful 21-year career.

The former Northern Ireland international - who won nine caps for his country - claimed countless trophies including six League of Ireland titles, five Gibson Cups, four Irish Cups, an FAI Cup, a Scottish Cup, two Irish League Cups, two Setanta Cups, four County Antrim Shields and a President’s Cup.

READ NEXT: "A friend to many" - Michael Newberry family see touching show of support

READ NEXT: Scale of Limavady's Irish Cup win over Larne's history makers not lost on Owens

Larne said on social media: "We are delighted to announce the appointment of Alan Mannus as our new Goalkeeper Coach. Bringing experience from an impressive, decorated playing career, Alan most recently served as a Goalkeeping Coach Educator for the Irish FA."

Mannus had two spells at Shamrock Rovers, either side of a stint in Scotland with St Johnstone where he won the Scottish Cup in 2013.

He began his career at Linfield and spent nine years at Windsor, and returned to his former stomping ground last year to join the club's Swifts coaching staff.

He also worked as goalkeeping coach educator for the Irish FA.

Larne currently sit ninth in the Irish Premiership ahead of Tuesday night's game against Crusaders at Seaview.

Join Belfast Live’s new Irish League WhatsApp group. Click this link to receive the latest Irish League headlines and breaking news direct to your phone. We also treat our members to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our group, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice