Tiernan Lynch to remain at Larne as St Johnstone talks break down

Photo shows Larne manager Tiernan Lynch applauding the fans after Friday's game
-Credit: (Image: INPHO/Jonathan Porter)


Larne have been handed a boost with news that Tiernan Lynch is to remain at Inver Park.

The 44-year-old was St Johnstone's number one choice after holding talks with the Scottish Premiership club over the weekend.

It is understood the Saints agreed a compensation deal with Larne but were unable to finalise personal terms with the title-winning Irish League boss.

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It is now being reported that St Johnstone have made a move to land former Motherwell player Simo Valakari as their next manager.

Valakari, 51, had already been interviewed as part of the process. The former 'Well midfielder was next in line after Aberdeen first-team coach Peter Leven pulled out of the race over the weekend, to remain at Pittodrie, reports the Daily Record.

St Johnstone have been searching for a manager since they sacked Craig Levein earlier this month. New owner Adam Webb has advanced the search after Saturday's 6-0 thumping to Celtic.

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They had also interviewed Scott Brown but he pulled out when the club confirmed they were going to interview a number of candidates. He has since signed a new deal at Ayr United.

Lynch will now be in the Larne dugout for Thursday's historic UEFA Conference League game against Molde in Norway. Before that Larne take on Harland and Wolff Welders in the BetMcLean Cup on Tuesday night.

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