Albion Rovers have announced Steven Saunders as their new manager, following the departure of Sandy Clark last month. Clark left to take up a coaching role at Queen of the South under his son Nicky.
New Manager Appointed
Saunders, a former defender for Motherwell, Partick Thistle and East Kilbride, takes over at Cliftonhill. The 35-year-old brings coaching experience from Morton, Kilmarnock and Partick Thistle's youth set-ups, and holds a UEFA A License. He will be assisted by John McGowan.
However, Saunders' appointment has led to club legend Alan Reid leaving the club. Reid, 37, applied for the managerial role and was offered a position in Saunders' backroom team, but decided against accepting it. He will now leave Cliftonhill and also hang up his boots due to injury.
Club Director's Statement
Albion Rovers director Ben Kearney expressed his gratitude to Reid, saying: “We are delighted to welcome Steven and John to Albion Rovers. Steven's appointment fits the Club's wider football strategy of developing players and fostering a sustainable, professional first-team environment.”
Kearney added: “I would like to place on record our gratitude to Alan Reid, who has led the football department since Sandy Clark and George Paterson's departure. Already a club legend, Alan once again went over and above for Albion Rovers. He has been vital to the Board over the past few weeks.”
Saunders' Background
Saunders, capped once for Scotland in a 2010 friendly against the Faroe Islands, joins from Kilwinning Rangers, where he was part of the coaching team. Kilwinning Rangers have been promoted to the Lowland League West, making them rivals for Albion Rovers in the upcoming season.
Speaking on his appointment, Saunders said: “It's great to be a manager of a club with such history and we can't wait to meet the fans during pre-season!”
