Stephen Rice has been appointed as the new chairman of the Professional Footballers’ Association of Ireland (PFAI ). The Shamrock Rovers midfielder replaces Ollie Cahill, who had held the role on an interim basis.

Announcing the new appointment, PFAI general secretary Stephen McGuinness welcomed Rice to the association.

“We are delighted to have Stephen on board,” McGuinness said. “He is a highly respected player with Shamrock Rovers and if he brings the same professional attitude to our association, that he brings onto the pitch every week he will be an outstanding chairman.”

Rice acknowledged the ongoing difficulties the league finds itself in but hopes to restore a solid “structure to the game here”.

“The PFAI’s role within the game is becoming increasingly more important,” Rice added, “and I look forward to assisting the association achieve its aims in the coming years.”