TONY FITZPATRICK, the former St Mirren player and manager, says it is a ‘dream’ to return as the club’s new chief executive.
The 59-year-old was unveiled yesterday as the man to replace outgoing Brian Caldwell who is set to take up a similar position at Shrewsbury Town. Fitzpatrick will be a familiar face to many followers of the Paisley club. Named the youngest ever captain at the age of 17, he went on to play in black and white more than 450 times over two spells, before later returning to twice manage St Mirren.
His work at the Ladbrokes Championship side will begin immediately while working along side Caldwell over the coming weeks, and speaking at the club’s Ralston training academy, he explained how his career ambition has come true.
“I’m absolutely ecstatic to be back,” he said. “It’s always been a dream of mine to come back to St Mirren. To come back in this role is phenomenal for me.
“It’s been a gut instinct for a few months since Brian hinted about moving. I thought it was coming at the right time for me.
“Hopefully what I can bring to the club is my business background. Over the past 20 years I have developed myself, and my football background with my contacts should pay off as well.
“I’m here to support everyone.”
Stewart Gilmour, the St Mirren chairman, added: “The board are delighted that Tony has accepted the position of CEO at the club. Tony has a wealth of experience in business as well as in football and we are sure he will be a huge asset to the club, the community and general wellbeing and future of St Mirren FC.”
The Paisley side also announced that Allan Gallacher will come in as club accountant to assist Fitzpatrick.
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