Irish Cup winner Keith Cowan back at Finn Harps

Cowan, a club legend, returns after three seasons away from Finn Park with Dungannon Swifts, Drogheda United and with Glentoran where he lifted the Irish Cup.

The Ramelton man first signed for the club in 2004 under Felix Healy and has gone on to make over 240 appearances for Harps.

Cowan will wear the captain’s armband when he lines out for the club in 2023.

Speaking after the signing, Cowan said: “It’s great to be home. I started my career here and the opportunity to finish it here is something that means a lot to me. I had so many great nights and memories at the club and I’m here to make more.

"Once I heard that Dave was coming in as manager, even without speaking with him I was interested straight away. The opportunity to work with someone of Dave’s calibre, experience and professionalism is rare at any level. So once I met him and heard what he had to say, I was on board straight away (not that I told him that!).

“Dave’s energy and enthusiasm for what he intends to build here is exciting to be a part of. With the help of the board, the fans and the community I believe this will be the start of something great for the club.”

As for Rogers he was delighted the big centre-back has returned to the Donegal club.

“I’m thrilled to be bringing back a real Finn Harps fan’s favourite in Keith Cowan and also proud to name him as my new club captain,” stated the Harps boss.

“The leadership and experience that Keith offers both on and off the field will be absolutely crucial this season, especially for the progress and development of our younger players.

“We had to beat off some strong competition to capture Keith’s signature and once we spoke in person and I outlined my expectations and principles on where I want to take the club, I’m proud to say that Keith also believes in this process and vision. I’m sure our fans will join me in welcoming Keith back to Finn Park and I can’t wait to start working with him.”

Meanwhile former Harps manager Ollie Horgan is back in League of Ireland football.

The 54-year-old has become John Caulfield’s assistant manager at First Division men Galway United.

Galway-born Horgan is one of the longest-serving League of Ireland managers in recent history after his tenure with Harps, which spanned almost a decade.

He earned promotion with the Ballybofey men to the Premier Division on two occasions, and in his first season, he brought them to their first FAI Cup semi-final in 14 years.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge, we all know how difficult and demanding the league is, but I’m looking forward to getting started,” admitted Horgan.

The Tribesmen’s new assistant puts work rate and ethics at the forefront and will come up against his former club Finn Harps on the opening night of the 2023 First Division season.