Dungannon Swifts have announced the return of Rodney McAree as first team manager.

The 48-year-old is back at Stangmore Park after leaving Glentoran at the weekend to help with the running of Dungannon United Youth established by his father, Joe, who has had to step back due to health reasons.

McAree previously managed the Swifts between 2011 and 2018, before a season long stint at Coleraine. He then assisted Barry Gray at Warrenpoint Town ahead of a move to Glentoran, initially on the coaching staff before stepping into the hotseat earlier this year.

The Swifts confirmed the move on their official club website, stating:-

"Dungannon Swifts FC are delighted to announce that Dungannon man, Rodney McAree, has returned to the Club as Manager.

"Rodney who took the Club to League Cup success in 2018, against Ballymena United, is really looking forward to getting back involved at DSFC.

"The backroom staff will be announced at a later stage.

"Welcome back to Dungannon Swifts FC, Rodney. We wish you every success as our new Manager."

McAree added, "I’m delighted to be coming back home to Stangmore Park, this opportunity has come at a good time for myself and I’m fortunate.

"It will give me the opportunity to try and unite Dungannon United Youth and Dungannon Swifts and make that bond even stronger than it already is. I can’t wait to get started at this stage.

"I’m really excited at the challenge which lies ahead."