Long Appointed As New Waterford Head Coach

Waterford have this afternoon confirmed that former Bohemians manager Keith Long has been named the new head coach of the First Division side.

Long arrives at the RSC following eight years with Premier Division side Bohemians, where he earned almost a 50% win ratio, and will take charge of the team for Friday’s game against Finn Harps at the RSC.

Waterford were without a manager since Darry Searle and the club both parted ways on Monday, Waterford sit fifth in the league table with two wins from five games, hoping appointing Long will change their fortunes as they just missed out on promotion last season.

Long’s reign as Bohs manager came to an end at the end of August last year following a spell of poor results, back in the dugout he has the experience to be able to guide Waterford as they aim for success this season.

On the appointment, chairman Andy Pilley said: “I’m delighted to welcome Keith to Waterford FC as the club’s new head coach.

“We had a number of very high profile applicants for the job, but Keith was the stand-out candidate and ticked every box for us.

“Keith is a hugely experienced and respected manager in the League of Ireland, and it speaks volumes about the reputation of Waterford FC that we’ve been able to attract someone like Keith to the role.

“I’m hugely excited for the future and am looking forward to being at the RSC for Keith’s first game on Friday night.”

New head coach Long spoke about his excitement regarding the deal:

“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to work with Waterford FC. It’s a great football club with great tradition and is a real footballing city.

“After meeting the owner and his senior staff, these are exciting times for a club, which has real ambition.

“I’m looking forward to getting started.”