DEFENDER Jeff Kenna has left Kidderminster Harriers and taken the vacant manager's job at Eircom League Premier Division side Galway United.

The 37-year-old former Republic of Ireland player was officially announced as the new man in the Terryland Park hot-seat during a press conference this morning.

His first task will be to inspire Galway, who are bottom of the league, to a victory over Bray Wanderers at home on Friday night.

Harriers manager Mark Yates said: "Jeff's been brilliant for me and for the club and we've tried to help him as much as possible with his coaching.

"He's a great player and you always know what you're going to get from him. He's won the Premier League but has come down and put in a really good shift for us.

"I've been talking to him and have been aware for some time that he wanted to move into management.

"He's been a credit to this club and we're pleased for him that he's getting a start in management and hopefully things will happen for him. We wish him all the best for the future."

The former Blackburn Rovers, Birmingham City and Derby County man joined Harriers in the summer of 2006 and made 71 appearances.

Kenna was also part of the Harriers side which reached the FA Trophy Final in May 2007 and became the first player to appear at both the old and new Wembley Stadiums.