Cork City have confirmed that Roddy Collins has been appointed as the club’s first team manager for the forthcoming season. The 48-year-old Dubliner, who was recently in charge of Maltese side Floriana, is looking forward to the challenge and especially the chance to play in the Europa League next season.

Collins said: “It is an honour to have been appointed and I am delighted with the appointment. This is a job that I have wanted for many years, and I cannot wait to get started.

“I am looking forward to sitting down with the playing staff currently on the books at the club and also to introducing some new blood. I am very enthusiastic about the task at hand and I want to rally the troops for the season ahead.

“The fact that the club has qualified for Europe is also a huge bonus, as playing in European competition is where everyone wants to be. It is a testament to the previous manager, the players and the chairman that the club secured a place in Europe.”

Speaking of the appointment, Cork City’s general manager Liam Meaney said: “Having interviewed a number of high quality candidates who expressed their interest in the position, we feel that Mr Collins is best suited for the club’s needs in the forthcoming 12 months.

“He has extensive experience and a proven record of success when operating on a restricted budget and his appointment represents a significant financial saving for the club with regard to this position, without compromising on quality.”

After an 18-year playing career in the League of Ireland, Irish League as well as stints in England and Wales, Collins started his managerial career at Bangor.

He led Bohemians to the title in 2001 before two spells with English side Carlisle.

He also managed the now defunct Dublin City and Shamrock Rovers.