Yahoo Sport 
Nathan Rooney makes European claim as Larne go in hunt of first UEFA Conference League points
Nathan Rooney says the group stages of European competition is where Larne should be. The new Inver Park boss will take a watching brief tonight as his side take on Slovenian outfit Olimpija in Ljubljana with assistant boss Gary Haveron taking charge of first team affairs.
The former Bruno's Magpies manager is relishing being involved at this stage of the competition and has set his new charges a target for the three remaining group games. "In my previous job, getting to this stage of the competition was something I was looking forward to...for this job, it's where we should be," said Rooney.
"Getting to group stages is an unbelievable compliment and it's off the back of all the work over previous years. It's a competition so we've got to go in, not be naive but be confident in terms of how we set the team up.
READ NEXT: Nathan Rooney sends out defiant title message as he takes over the reins at Larne
"But, at the same time, we've got to be alive to what's coming up in the (domestic) league and cup competitions as well. It's not a free hit, we've got to be organised, there's a different set of eyes on you and obviously three games in this competition moving forward. So let's go and try and get at least a point if not more."
Rooney will officially take charge of the reins for Sunday's league game at home to Cliftonville. The 35-year-old has been impressed with what he has seen so far and is keen to build on the solid foundations which have been built by the previous regime.
“The foundations here are incredible, both off the field and on the field," he said. “I have my own ideas as a manager and I will implement those, but I’m not naïve in any way, I’ll not try and fix something that isn’t broken.
“My plan is to build and add my own elements to what is already here. I will instil in the players a different way of playing, but at the right time, perhaps not right away. I want to help the players control games. I want to give players a Plan A and a Plan B.
“I like to have a home mentality and away mentality. That’s something that I think will stand us in good stead for both the league and European competition. There may be opportunities now for a couple of other players to step up and prove themselves.
“My hope is my infectious energy can give the team an extra five or ten per cent. You can tell in the room there's good confidence, there's good energy...we've got to carry that forward. If something's not broken then we continue. If there are things which maybe need to be addressed over time then perfect."
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
