Following the resignation of manager Justin McBride and assistant manager Paul McKnight, the Ards board met to discuss the situation and draw up a shortlist of those who we would like to approach to fill the manager's role.

Chairman Brian Adams said: "We considered advertising but that process would have left us without a manager for most of a month while we interviewed candidates. It was decided therefore to draw up a list of possible candidates and approach them. Top of this list was Niall Currie. Following a meeting with Niall, it was agreed that he would be offered the position.

"We are delighted that he has agreed to take the job. He is a manager with an excellent track record, who was keen return to Championship football and is very familiar with the majority of Ards' players.

"Justin McBride brought a high quality to training at the club and signed good players for us. We hope that he is not away from football for too long as he is a real legend in the game.

"We believe Niall has the personality to ignite the enthusiasm of the crowd and get us winning again. With the transfer window currently closed, it will be up to Niall to get to know players' abilities before deciding if changes are needed in the January window.

"Training was taken on Tuesday and Thursday of this week by club captain Darren Nixon and he will also oversee Saturday morning's training session. Following this, the new manager will meet with his players."

13th October 2011

ardsfc.co.uk