King Kenny returns home

The Upperlands man was player-manager of Tobermore in the late 80s and early 90s, in what was his first managerial appointment. Twenty years later, he returns with his Kilmarnock FC side who start their pre season campaign with a trip to Northern Ireland.

Tobermore United were delighted to announce this glamour tie a number of months ago and the entire village are looking forward to welcoming home their former manager.

“We are delighted and feel incredibly privileged that Kenny accepted our invitation. They are a team in great demand at the moment after winning the Scottish League Cup and we look forward to welcoming them to Fortwilliam Park.”

A club spokesman was hopeful that a large crowd would gather at Fortwilliam Park to welcome home Kenny Shiels.

“To many local football fans there is only one ‘King Kenny’ and we look forward to their visit and hopefully it is a superb occasion for local football fans.”

Current incumbent of the Fortwilliam Park hot-seat is Oliver McAuley. McAuley, who will be assisted by South African Kinglsey Burrows and Jim Scott, played for Shiels when he was at Carrick Rangers and Coleraine.

“For me personally it will feel a bit strange being in the dug-out next to Kenny. I played under him at Coleraine and Carrick for nearly eight years. It is absolutely fantastic to see him doing so well and it comes as no surprise that he is enjoying success at the highest level.”

“The game itself will provide us with a strong challenge but also a good work out regarding our pre-season training. All of the squad are looking forward to the game and I have no doubt that a large crowd will be in attendance to welcome Kenny back to Fortwilliam Park.”