What happened?
Patrick McEleney, a former Irish League star, has been appointed as interim head coach at League of Ireland outfit Finn Harps. The 33-year-old, who won three Premier Division titles with Dundalk, will serve as interim boss until the end of this season as Harps look to climb off the bottom of the First Division table.
Why it matters for Ballymena United
Mceeleney's appointment is a significant boost for the club, which has struggled in recent seasons. His experience and knowledge of the League of Ireland will be invaluable in helping the team turn their fortunes around.
What comes next?
Mceeleney's first match in charge will be Friday's home clash against leaders Cork City. The team will also be looking to strengthen their squad with the signing of former Coleraine midfielder Ciaron Harkin on loan from Sligo Rovers.
The 2025-26 season saw Ballymena United finish 10th in the Northern Ireland Premiership, with 34 points from 33 games. They have since moved to the First Division, where they currently sit 8th in the table, with a goal difference of -11. The team's next fixture is against Bangor on October 31st.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 10th in Northern Ireland Premiership, 34 pts, 9W-7D-17L from 33 games, recent form LLDWD.
Finn Harps chairperson Ian Harkin believes McEleney joins at a crucial time. 'We welcome Patrick to Finn Harps at an important moment for the club,' Harkin told the club's website. 'His knowledge of football in both the League of Ireland and the NIFL, his experience of what Irish clubs can achieve when professional structures are put in place, and his commitment to developing young players through our academy pathway made him the right appointment as we prepare for full-time football.'
Mceeleney has already announced his first signing with former Coleraine midfielder Ciaron Harkin joining on loan from Sligo Rovers for the rest of the season. Harkin won the Irish Cup with the Bannsiders in 2018 after joining from Institute and returned to The Showgrounds in a loan move from Derry City during the 2024/25 campaign, playing 18 times in the Premiership.
The appointment of McEleney and his brother Shane as assistant is a significant boost for the club, which is looking to climb off the bottom of the First Division table. The team will be looking to strengthen their squad with the signing of former Coleraine midfielder Ciaron Harkin on loan from Sligo Rovers.
