Crusaders Strikers have confirmed the appointment of Jonny Tuffey as first team manager on a permanent basis as pre-season training got underway at the weekend.

Tuffey stepped into the hot-seat on a temporary basis in August 2021 after previous incumbent Spike Hill stepped down.

The Banbridge man was also goalkeeping coach at the club, and worked closely with Maddy Harvey-Clifford as she went on to claim her first call up to the senior Northern Ireland squad.

He went on to guide the Strikers to a third place finish in the Danske Bank Women's Premiership, and to the runners-up spot in both the Irish FA and Co. Antrim Women's Cups.

The 34-year-old is, of course, also on the books of the men's team at Seaview and has made numerous appearances this season, most recently in the Irish Cup defeat of former club Glenavon last week.

His playing career has also taken him to Linfield and Partick Thistle amongst others, as well as eight caps at full international level.

Tuffey will be assisted by Steven Bainbridge, player-coach Danielle McDowell-Tuffey and strength and conditioning coach Natalie Thompson.