Paddy McLaughlin appointment excites Glenavon as they move quickly to bring in new boss

Glenavon have moved quickly to appoint Stephen McDonnell's successor as Paddy McLaughlin makes a return to Irish League management.

The Lurgan Blues parted company with McDonnell on Saturday evening after 14 months in charge at Mourneview Park.

The club are currently on a six-game losing streak with Saturday's defeat by Dungannon Swifts dropping them into 11th place in the Irish Premiership.

READ NEXT: Dion Charles issues warning to his Northern Ireland teammates ahead of key Luxembourg clash

READ NEXT: Ruairi McConville realises teenage dreams but he wants more after special Northern Ireland debut

They have moved quickly to bring in McLaughlin, who left his role as assistant manager of Derry City in February of this year, with club chairman Glenn Emerson explaining Glenavon's decision to get the new man in post as quickly as possible.

“We felt it was important to move quickly once we made the decision to part company with Stephen and so we made contact immediately with Paddy who, having had a discussion with us this afternoon, was more than happy to become the new Glenavon manager," explained Emerson.

"We could have made a short term appointment or asked some of the coaches to fill in for the interim but the board felt it was important to make an appointment with both short and long term stability in mind. We feel that appointing Paddy, who was the standout candidate, and giving him a contract for the length we have achieves both objectives.

“We’re excited to see what Paddy will bring to the role and hope that the fans can see the board’s ambition to see this club much higher up the league than we currently are.”

McLaughlin will take up his role immediately and be in charge for Glenavon's Mid Ulster Cup semi-final away to Dungannon on Tuesday night.

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