Stephen Bradley has been confirmed as Shamrock Rovers head coach for next season, the club has announced.

The 31-year-old took over on a caretaker basis after Pat Fenlon's departure in July with Glen Cronin, Stephen McPhail and Damien Duff named as coaches.

He led them to a fourth place finish in the Airtricity League Premier Division, ensuring European football for next season.

The former midfielder will sit his Pro Licence with the FAI over an 18-month period starting next month.

“I am very honoured to accept the position of Head Coach at Shamrock Rovers F.C.. We have a huge amount of work to do but preparations for next season are already well under way and we will work night and day to make sure the team is ready to compete for honours come March,” Bradley said.

New director of football Stephen McPhail also commented on the appointment, saying “ am delighted to announce Stephen Bradley as the new Head Coach of Shamrock Rovers F.C.

Last season Stephen took on the role of interim manager. During his period in charge I witnessed first-hand his ability operating in a difficult and challenging environment.

In my opinion, he is one of the best young coaches that I’ve seen during my time in football and he is absolutely the right man to lead the first team forward at this point in time.”