DALBEATTIE STAR have unveiled former captain Paul Laurie as their new manager.
‘Scud’ will take the reigns from interim manager Keith Dingwall after Saturday’s league tie at home to Heston Rovers, now that he has recovered from the worst of a back injury.
And the 31-year-old postman hopes to deliver success to the club that has given him so much as a player.
He said: “I am delighted. When Clark offered me the position back at the end of August I was gutted that I couldn’t take it because of my back.
“But Clark called me again the other day and I didn’t have to think twice!
“I’ve been here for six and a half years and loved every single minute of it. I want bring in some silverware and know from my time here that a happy team is a winning team.”
Paul returns to the Islecroft side as they sit at the top of the South of Scotland league and has thrilled club chairman Clark Lamont with his enthusiasm and dedication to the club.
He said: “Paul’s as ambitious as the club is and shows great enthusiasm for his football and the club. The boys and I are delighted with his appointment as we know he’s a winner. He knows the club, committee and players inside out and is still at an age where he knows the boys who are playing locally.”
Paul said of the challenges ahead: “We’re top of the league so taking over now puts a bit more added pressure on me but I know this side is capable of winning the South of Scotland league.
“I think with the quality we have here in the squad and coaching staff it could breed success if the commitment is there.
“I’ve won a lot while playing and I want to bring that mentality to the players at the club. The camaraderie here is second to none - the best in the south.”
Paul was sidelined early on this season with a back injury for which he still awaits an MRI scan but plans on playing again when he returns to full fitness.
However, Star’s new boss insists that no place in his starting 11 is assured, even for himself.
He said: “No-one in this team is guaranteed a start, not even myself. You have to perform and commitment is a must. That is all I can ask from the players.”
Chairman Clark Lamont acclaimed the job done by interim manager Keith Dingwall.
He said: “Keith has to be complimented for how he ran the club since Paul Menlove left. He was great with the boys and was fantastic for keeping us on top of the league.”
Clark was optimistic with the targets set for new boss Paul.
He said: “We’re top of the league and it would obviously be nice to stay there.
“In the future at some point the Scottish Cup will become the challenge.”
Paul will keep Keith Dingwall as his assistant, with Jimmy Hannay and Robert Harkness completing Star’s coaching staff.
