Ex-Republic of Ireland boss, Stephen Kenny, has recently penned a five-year commitment with St Patrick’s Athletic, marking his return to management. The Football Association of Ireland had let Kenny go in November, following a stint of 40 fixtures at the helm of the men’s senior squad and an additional 12 managing the Ireland under-21 squad.
He has now sealed a long-term pact with St Pat’s, following interest from lower-tier English clubs, Bohemians, and Dundalk. St Pat’s chairperson, Garrett Kelleher, and Kenny, who rose to prominence while managing St Pat’s under-21s early in his career, agreed on the contract.
Speaking on his appointment, Kenny said he’s eager to embark on this fresh spell of his life and for the club, implying his readiness to devote his full commitment. Garrett Kelleher has shared his expansive vision for the football club that includes plans to increase the stadium’s size, extend the club’s influence in America, and ensure European advancements – essentially a plethora of exciting enhancements.
Adding to the funding was the strategic investment recently given a nod from the American company, Kenosis Capital, led by National Football League stars Joe Flacco and Matt Birk. Kenny spoke about the decision to sign a tenure-long contract, intending to gradually elevate the club over an extended period.
Stephen Kenny boasts four league wins under his belt, including a single Bohs victory and three Dundalk triumphs. His new position comes before Derry City’s encounter in Richmond Park this Friday evening, followed by Shelbourne’s Monday visit.
He will have to work hard to rise from the lower parts of the league table. Kenny feels more at ease in a partnership role at the club, a vision shared by Kelleher.
Despite St Pat’s 2021 triumph in the FAI Cup, under Jon Daly, they currently occupy the seventh position in the Premier Division, just after 16 matches.
A professional homecoming for Kenny, his mother, who once resided in Ballyfermot and hailed from Inchicore, used to regularly attend St Pat’s matches, solidifying a personal connection to the club. Kenny’s joblessness hasn’t stretched beyond a few months in his 25-year career, marking his essence as a born coach.