Ruaidhrí Higgins appointed manager of Coleraine FC

Ruaidhrí Higgins has been appointed as the new manager of Coleraine FC, returning to a club where he ended his playing career in 2016. Higgins, who previously managed Derry City to notable successes including the 2022 FAI Cup, replaces Dean Shiels, who departed the club alongside his assistant Michael O'Connor. Higgins will immediately take charge ahead of Coleraine's crucial European play-off campaign, emphasizing his commitment to building both on-pitch success and club pride. He is joined by Conor Loughrey on his coaching staff, a trusted collaborator known for his tactical insight. Club executive chairman Henry Ross expressed strong support for Higgins, describing the appointment as key for both the short- and long-term future of the club. The managerial change follows a period of transition at Coleraine, with several staff departures and the club finishing fifth in their first full-time season.