Former Irish League star appointed interim boss at League of Ireland club - with ex-Coleraine midfielder his first signing
Former Ballymena United midfielder Patrick McEleney has been appointed as interim head coach at League of Ireland outfit Finn Harps – with older brother Shane joining as assistant.
McEleney announced his retirement following a trophy-laden career on Monday and has moved quickly into his first senior managerial role.
The 33-year-old, who won three Premier Division titles with Dundalk, will serve as interim boss until the end of this season as Harps look to climb off the bottom of the First Division table.
McEleney has previously served on the coaching staff at Derry City under ex-Larne manager Tiernan Lynch and his first match in charge will be Friday's home clash against leaders Cork City.
He made 26 Premiership appearances after joining Ballymena in January 2025 and Finn Harps chairperson Ian Harkin believes McEleney joins at a crucial time.
“We welcome Patrick to Finn Harps at an important moment for the club,” Harkin told the club’s website. “His knowledge of football in both the League of Ireland and the NIFL, his experience of what Irish clubs can achieve when professional structures are put in place, and his commitment to developing young players through our academy pathway made him the right appointment as we prepare for full time football.
“Having Shane join the staff until the end of the season adds further strength, and he knows this club well from his time playing here.
"Patrick will play a central role in laying these foundations, and further appointments within the football structure will be announced in the coming weeks.”
McEleney has already announced his first signing with former Coleraine midfielder Ciaron Harkin joining on loan from Sligo Rovers for the rest of this season.
Harkin won the Irish Cup with the Bannsiders in 2018 after joining from Institute and returned to The Showgrounds in a loan move from Derry City during the 2024/25 campaign, playing 18 times in the Premiership.