ROBBIE HORGAN HAS laid down his vision to keep Drogheda United competing at the top level.

Horgan was confirmed this morning as Drogs’ first-team manager following their split with Mick Cooke.

Cooke led the club to three cup finals in 2013 season but finished his last season empty-handed following defeats in the Setanta Sports Cup, EA Sports Cup and FAI Cup.

Horgan, who served as his assistant, believes that success lies in co-operation across all age groups.

“I believe that strong interaction and co-operation between all the teams involved in the club is key to a successful future and my plans involve working closely with those who look after the U19s, U18s and Drogheda Boys so that we continue to develop young local talent and that young people see a progression for themselves within the club.

I am a firm believer that sport should be at the heart of every community and I will be working alongside the board and staff to promote Drogheda United as an important community asset that brings people of all ages and creeds together in a positive way every Friday night.

Horgan, who played with Drogheda during the late 1980s and 1990s before returning as assistant manager in 2011, was one of three candidates interviewed by the Drogheda board.

Director Noel Heeney said: “All three impressed but we agreed that the plans that Robbie presented to us, his strong financial understanding and his ambition and strength of character made him the right man for the job at this time.

“We believe he will prove to be an exceptional manager.”

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