Cassidy is named as Derry manager

Damien Cassidy is the new Derry football manager

Damien Cassidy has been named as the new Derry football manager.

Cassidy's appointment was announced late on Tuesday night after interviews and a County Board meeting.

He saw off the challenge of John Brennan and Derry hurling boss Brian McGilligan to secure the post after Liam Bradley withdrew his nomination.

"We haven't won championship silverware for 10 years - we'll aim to make Derry a competitive force in the Ulster championship," said Cassidy.

"I wouldn't say Derry have underachieved, but in terms of the Ulster championship and moving through ther front door it certainly has been a disappointment.

"When you see the players we have you can understand the expectations that we should be achieving more - that's the challenge."

Cassidy's backroom team will include former Antrim star Kevin Madden, Martin McConnell, Brendan McCrory and goalkeeping coach Kevin O'Neill.

Madden has made an impact in Derry football with Glenullin while McCrory previously worked with Eamonn Coleman.

Cassidy was the favourite for the position since Paddy Crozier opted not to seek another year in the job.

Last week, John McCloskey and Tony Scullion ruled themselves out of the race to succeed Crozier.

Scullion is a full-time employee of the Ulster Council and he did not get the green light from the provincial body to be in contention to combine the roles.