Ballinamallard United have announced the appointment of Tommy Canning as the new first team manager at Ferney Park.

The 49-year-old steps into the role as a permanent replacement for Harry McConkey who parted ways with the club in early October.

Club stalwarts Mark Stafford and James McKenna had been looking after playing matters in the interim, guiding them to back-to-back victories ocer Ballyclare Comrades and Bangor.

Canning is, of course, no stranger to the Playr-Fit Championship having most recently been at Dergview during which time he guided them to a top six finish and two North West Senior Cup titles.

Mallards chairman Tom Elliott said on the club social media channels: "We welcome Tommy Canning and his experience to Ferney Park. His insight and knowledge of the Championship will be a great asset to the Club.

"Mark Stafford and James McKenna have provided great stability at the Club for the past two weeks, I trust that Mark will have a huge impact going forward along with Tommy and the team."

And Canning expressed his eagerness to get on with the job at hand.

"Investing the time and money into coaching licenses, then the success at Sion Swifts Ladies all helped me improve and learn.

"I now want to push on at Ferney Park and help the Mallards improve their position and standing."

The Mallards travel to bottom of the table Knockbreda on Saturday, kick-off 2pm.