Kilduff Recruits Kiernan: A Bold Move for Dundalk’s Future
Dundalk FC has announced that Ken Kiernan is joining Ciarán Kilduff as his assistant at Oriel Park. They are preparing for the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division.
Ciarán Kilduff recently left his position as manager of Athlone Town women’s team after they lost in the Sports Direct FAI Cup final. He then took the managerial role at Dundalk and brought back Kiernan, who was his assistant at Athlone in 2022. Kiernan stepped down as Bohemians women’s manager just last week.
Kilduff has also reintroduced familiar figures to Dundalk supporters. Gerry Spain returns as first-team coach and analyst. Liam Burns remains as first-team coach, and Peter Cherrie continues as goalkeeping coach.
How will Ken Kiernan’s experience benefit Dundalk FC’s coaching staff?
Interview with Ciarán Kilduff: A New Era at Dundalk FC with Ken Kiernan
By the News Directory Team
As Dundalk FC gears up for the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division, we had the opportunity to speak with newly appointed manager Ciarán Kilduff about his recent appointments, including assistant coach Ken Kiernan. With a fresh coaching lineup and a strong vision for the future, Kilduff sheds light on what fans can expect this season.
News Directory: Ciarán, welcome to Dundalk! What motivated you to take on this managerial role, especially after your recent experience at Athlone Town?
Ciarán Kilduff: Thank you! The opportunity to manage a club like Dundalk was simply too good to pass up. The history, the fanbase, and the potential here are truly exciting. After the recent cup final with Athlone, I felt it was time for a new challenge, and I am thrilled to be here.
News Directory: You’ve brought back Ken Kiernan as your assistant. Can you elaborate on your decision to include him in your coaching team?
Ciarán Kilduff: Absolutely! Ken and I have worked together before, and we had a very successful partnership at Athlone. He has an impressive background, and his coaching abilities are top-notch. I genuinely believe that our familiarity will create a seamless coaching experience for the players. He’s not just a great coach; we have a great working relationship, which will be beneficial for everyone involved.
News Directory: Dundalk fans are excited to see familiar faces in your coaching staff, including Gerry Spain and Liam Burns. How do you think this continuity will impact the team?
Ciarán Kilduff: Bringing back familiar figures like Gerry and Liam was a conscious choice. It helps create a sense of stability and trust within the squad. This familiarity can enhance our professionalism and improve our day-to-day operations as a unit. The players know these coaches, and that rapport will facilitate better communication and teamwork on the field.
News Directory: From your perspective, what qualities does Ken bring to the table that will strengthen your coaching staff?
Ciarán Kilduff: Ken has a wealth of experience and a fantastic coaching style that resonates well with players. He is dedicated and brings a strong tactical understanding of the game. Together, I believe we will create an environment where players can thrive, and I’m eager to see how his contributions will elevate our performance this season.
News Directory: Lastly, what message do you have for the Dundalk supporters as you embark on this new journey?
Ciarán Kilduff: I want our fans to know that I am fully committed to building a team that they can be proud of. The coaching staff and I are here to work tirelessly to enhance the team’s performance. Exciting times lie ahead, and I can’t wait to get started and hopefully bring success back to Oriel Park.
As Dundalk FC prepares for the upcoming season, fans are hopeful that Kilduff’s vision and the presence of seasoned coaches like Kiernan will lead the team to new heights.
Kilduff expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I couldn’t be happier. I got all my first choices.” He emphasized that the coaching team he assembled will enhance professionalism and trust within the squad.
Regarding Kiernan’s addition, Kilduff highlighted Kenny’s strong background, noting their previous success together at Athlone. “Ken has a great CV. He’s a brilliant coach, and we work well together,” Kilduff said. He is excited for the opportunity and believes Kiernan’s qualities will strengthen the team’s coaching staff.