News

CRFC are delighted to confirm the appointment of Alan Combe as our new goalkeeping coach.

Alan, who previously worked as a goalkeeping coach with Hearts, Hibs and Alloa Athletic, replaces John McCafferty, who has chosen to step down due to work and family commitments.

The manager said: “When John informed me he had decided to leave Alan was the first name I thought of. I knew he had just left Hibs and I really enjoyed working with Alan when I was manager of Alloa. I’m delighted to be reunited with him because I know we’ve managed to get our hands on a top class, experienced, goalkeeping coach.”

“Alan will definitely help to get the very best out of our goalkeepers, it’s a great appointment for us.”

Edinburgh-born Alan was a top class keeper in his own right, making more than 400 appearances for Kilmarnock, Dundee United, St Mirren, Bradford City, Hamilton, Morton and Cowdenbeath. The 46-year-old also featured in senior Scotland squads and was capped at ‘B’ level, in a 2-0 victory over Poland in 2005.

He worked as Alloa’s goalkeeping coach while still playing for Morton. Alan became the goalkeeping coach at Hearts after hanging up his gloves in 2012. He then joined Hibs in 2014 and was a member of their coaching staff when the Edinburgh side won the Scottish Cup in 2016, with current midfielder Fraser Fyvie also in the winning side that day.

Alan remained at Easter Road until the end of last season.

John was with Cove Rangers for five years and was a member of the squads that clinched promotion into the SPFL and then won the League Two title last season.

Paul Hartley said: “We fully understand John’s reasons for leaving and wish him all the very best for the future. He was vital member of the club’s playing staff over the last few years and I also enjoyed working with him since arriving at the club.”

Dundee based John said:  “It was a very difficult decision to make because I’ve loved every minute of my time with Cove and was looking forward to my new role as goalkeeping coach. It’s a club with big ambitions that’s going places and I would really have loved to play my part.”

“Unfortunately, I’ve recently started a full-time course at University, on top of also working full-time. My son, who is now aged seven, is starting to play football as well  and I’m keen to see him as often as possible.”

“That meant I simply couldn’t give up the time needed to do the job at Cove to the standards required. I would like to thank everyone I worked with and played alongside over the years for leaving me with a stack of happy memories.”

“I obviously wish Paul, the rest of the coaches and everyone at the club all the very best for the future, Cove are a club who will always be close to my heart.”

Everyone at Cove Rangers would like to welcome Alan to the club and wish him well during his time at Balmoral Stadium.

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