Ian Morris has made a swift return to football after landing the Waterford FC job today.
The Dubliner managed Shelbourne to the First Division title this year and was crowned PFA Ireland First Division Manager of the Year.
But the 34-year-old wasn’t retained by the Reds who instead appointed Ireland legend Damien Duff as their new manager in November.
Speaking about his Waterford appointment, Morris said today: “I’m absolutely delighted. I’ve done a lot of background work since I got the call.
“I spoke to the owner and the chairman, and we’ve had numerous calls and meetings over the last few days.
“We really got to the core of everything, there was no stone left unturned about the club and its running.
“Everything has been really positive from them so we’re starting off in the right way.
“I’m here to build and I’m here to bring success. I’m really driven and I’m going to give everything I can to the club.”
Waterford were relegated after losing to UCD in the playoffs following an explosive week behind the scenes at the Blues.
Marc Bircham was suspended and then sacked as manager just days before that pivotal clash with the Students.
But Morris is determined to get the club back on track and has a swift Premier Division return in his sights.
Morris said: “I’m working on tying down the players we want to keep, getting straight into recruitment, and speaking to players.
“It’s a case of seeing who we can identify to get the best possible squad to get the club back up. That’s the aim, that’s the goal and that’s what I’m coming in for.”
And he continued: “I’ve done my homework on the club and the facilities are one of the best in the country.
“I’ve spoken to a lot of players and ex-managers to see what they had to say about it; the fans, the stadium, the atmosphere that’s created when the club is doing well.
“I know once the city gets behind the team it can be an absolute fortress and that’s a massive draw for me.
“The ambition is there from the owner and at board level and they want to drive forward and get the club really flying in the right direction.”
Morris is still finalising his backroom staff and details will be confirmed by the club after Christmas.
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