Mahon is new Derry manager

Kevin Mahon was last night named as Derry City's seventh team boss in 13 years in League of Ireland football.

Mahon (42) said after last week's victory over Finn Harps that he did not wish to be considered for the job, but following discussions with close friends and family, he agreed to let his name go forward yesterday.

Last night Derry City chairman Kevin Friel said Mahon was "the unanimous choice of the board of directors". He succeeds Felix Healy who resigned 10 days ago.

A long-time friend of Healy, Mahon returned to the fold as Healy's assistant four years ago, but his association with his home town club dates back to Derry's entry into League of Ireland in 1985.

"Obviously I have mixed emotions since Felix left, we've been friends for a long time but having spoken with a number of people during the week, I've agreed to take the job on a part-time basis.

"I've been assured that my responsibility lies solely with first-team affairs and, as I believe we have a quality panel here, all players will be remaining at the club."

The former winger, who has played at senior level since the age of 16, has served a long apprenticeship away from the Brandywell. Making his debut in League of Ireland football with Athlone Town, he has represented Finn Harps, the now defunct Thurles Town and Dundalk while also having had two spells in America with New York Apollos. He represented Coleraine in the Irish League before moving to Derry City late in 1985.