Former Blackburn Rovers and Republic of Ireland defender Jeff Kenna will replace sacked manager Tony Cousins at Galway United.

Kenna joins the Tribesman on a three-year-deal and has also registered as a player. He takes control of the eircom Premier League's bottom side with immediate effect and will be in the dugout when they take on Bray Wanderers at Terryland Park on Friday.

"I have been trying to get into the coaching and management side of things for the last season.  I am delighted and thrilled to be given this opportunity to work with the board and Galway United," said Kenna today. "There are some good young lads coming through.  Hopefully I can add something to that and that can only benefit the club."

Galway United chief executive Nick Leeson added: "This will signal a change of direction for the football club.  We wanted a fresh approach, but not necessarily somebody steeped in League of Ireland tradition.

"I'm excited by the prospect of working with Jeff, as are the remainder of the board.  Our season, I believe starts now."

The board will "find the resources to strengthen the squad" at the earliest opportunity, according to club chairman John Fallon.

Kenna, who was recently released from his playing contract by Kidderminster Harriers, was capped 27 times for Ireland between 1995 and 2000.

He won the Premiership title with Blackburn in 1995 and also had spells with Birmingham City, Southampton and Derby County.

Kenna is not expected to appear on the teamsheet on a regular basis though the board stressed he if free to include himself if he sees fit.

Galway sacked Cousins three weeks ago after his side registered just one point from their first four games.

The Tribesmen have since lost the three league games played under caretaker managaer and under-21 boss Billy Clery, with the latest an embarrassing 3-0 defeat to near neighbours Sligo Rovers.