Ian Morris appointed by Blues as new boss

Ian Morris

Ian Morris Credit: Gerry Shanahan (ETPhotos)

Waterford have announced the appointment of Ian Morris as their new first team manager.

Morris led Shelbourne to two First Division titles in three years but was recently let go by the Dublin club and replaced by former Irish international Damien Duff.

The 34-year-old spoke to waterfordfc.ie about his arrival on Suirside. “I’m absolutely delighted,” said Morris. “I’ve done a lot of background work since I got the call. I spoke to the owner and the chairman, and we’ve had numerous calls and meetings over the last few days. 

“We really got to the core of everything. There was no stone left unturned about the club and its running. Everything has been really positive from them so we’re starting off in the right way.

“I’m here to build and I’m here to bring success. I’m really driven and I’m going to give everything I can to the club.

The Blues were relegated from the Premier Division after losing a promotion/relegation playoff against UCD in November. Their owner Richard Forrest had sacked former manager Marc Bircham just three days before that game.

The Dubliner acknowledged the importance of promotion by adding "I'm working on tying down the players we want to keep, getting straight into recruitment, and speaking to players so it’s a case of who our targets are and who we can identify to get the best possible squad to get the club back up. That’s the aim, that’s the goal and that’s what I’m coming in for.”

The club also stated that news will follow regarding backroom staff and the playing squad. Currently, only five first team players are under contract for the coming season.

Waterford start their First Division campaign away to Athlone Town on 18 February.

    About Ryan Kilbane

    View Full Profile