McGarel takes over as Newington Rangers boss

The big central defender has been part of the fixtures and fittings at Newington for years, having joined the club when Harry Kernohan and Thomas Craig were at the helm. McGarel went on to play under a succession of Newington managers, amongst them Don Hogg and Stuart Pike.

He did leave Rangers temporarily a few seasons ago, for a short stint at Larne Tech Old Boys before returning to his old haunt. A few years later, he also spent just under two full seasons at Larne Olympic; cutting his managerial teeth in that second term, by looking after the Olympic when Marty Rodgers and Jonathan Magill were promoted to the backroom team for the firsts. However, once the plug was pulled on Larne Olympic, it was no surprise to see McGarel back in familiar pastures at the Knowe.

McGarel told the Times: “I’ve been at Newington at least 10 years. Last year, results weren’t great, as you can tell by the scorelines.

“In the next few days I will be getting in touch with a lot of players; the lads who were there, plus a few who could, hopefully, come in to strengthen the squad.”

Rangers finished third-bottom in Division 1C last season. “It’s a challenge, it’s something different. I still intend to play, though I will see after pre-season,” added McGarel.