A look at Finn Harps ahead of the SSE Airtricity Men's First Division
Finn Harps had a season to forget in 2023 and will be looking to right that wrong with a strong start under a new manager this year as they look to bring top-flight football back to Donegal again.
They do so under the watch of Darren Murphy who brings a new and fresh impetus to the Club looking to build a squad capable of challenging in 2024.
Murphy was previously Head Coach at Dungannon Swifts and also held first team coaching roles at Linfield and Crusaders.
He also has been Elite UEFA Academy Coach and Elite Performance Coach for the IFA and has managed Northern Ireland International sides at U16, U17 and U19 levels so brings a wealth of experience with him to the Harps set-up.
Murphy has moved fast in securing a strong squad for 2024 holding onto some key players such as Tony McNamee, Noe Baba and Max Hutchinson.
There’s plenty of new faces in building at Finn Park too as David Cawley and Chris Lotefa both made the switch from Sligo Rovers and Bohemians respectively.
The perennial tough place to go, Finn Park, Cawley said he’s looking forward to being on this side for once.
“When I got the call from Kevin and he spoke about their plans for the year and where I fit in I knew it was the right move for me,” he told Finn Harps media.
“I’ve had many battles with Harps during my career and Finn Park has always been a tough place to go, so I’m excited to have it be my home ground now.”
There’s new names too in Conor Tourish and Success Edogun with Tourish returning to Finn Park after he impressed in his last spell at the Club.
With the retention too of Ryan Rainey, Harps should have a solid core to help bring success back to Ballybofey once more in 2024.
Finish last season – 9th
Head Coach – Darren Murphy
Key player – David Cawley
