Crusaders icon David Rainey named as assistant manager to new boss Declan Caddell

Caddell will take charge of the Crues after long serving boss Stephen Baxter oversees the club’s European journey.

The north Belfast side will compete in the Uefa Conference League qualifiers after winning their Play-Off Final against Coleraine on Monday.

Assisting Caddell will be his former team-mate Rainey, who won seven trophies in his eight seasons with the club from 2005 to 2013, including the Setanta Cup and Irish Cup before returning to Seaview to take charge of the Under-20s side.

Crusaders say former Glentoran striker Rainey will “step into the role of assistant manager, bringing his invaluable experience to support Caddell in his managerial duties”.

Peter Thompson and Steven Livingstone have, meanwhile, been named as first team coaches.

Thompson has been part of the Crusaders backroom team for the past two seasons, while Livingstone previously played at Crusaders and held the role of Head of Academy for a period.

David McClelland will continue as Goalkeeping Coach, while Gary McIlwaine steps up as the Strength and Conditioning Coach.

McIlwaine currently works on the Crusaders Full Time Football Academy alongside Jonny Tuffey and Ryan Caddell.

Frankie Weir, previously the kit manager, will transition to the role of club chaplain, embodying the club’s commitment to the wellbeing of its players and staff.

Roy McReynolds will take on the kit manager job having assisted Weir for many years and will be supported by Jonathan Williams, ensuring the smooth management of the team’s equipment and kit requirements.

Crusaders added: “Furthermore, the club is pleased to announce that Stephen Baxter will remain as Head Coach for the European qualification games, providing continuity and leadership during this crucial period.

“We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to outgoing coaches Jeff Spiers and Charlie Murphy, whose contributions have been invaluable to the club’s journey, as well as our long-standing Chaplain Rev Ken White for his dedicated service.

“Crusaders Football Club looks forward to the upcoming season with great anticipation, buoyed by the strength and expertise of our new backroom team. Together, we are committed to achieving success and making our supporters proud.”

Goalkeeper Jonny Tuffey's contract has been extended for an additional two years.

The former Northern Ireland stopper will also take on the role of Academy Co-Ordinator for the Full-Time Education programme at Crusaders.

This appointment underscores the club's dedication to nurturing young talent and providing them with the necessary resources and guidance to excel both academically and athletically.

"Jonny's extension is fantastic news for Crusaders FC,” said Caddell. “Not only does it ensure continuity and stability within our squad, but it also highlights our commitment to investing in the development of our youth players.

"Jonny's experience and passion for the game make him the perfect fit for the role of Academy Co-Ordinator, and I have no doubt that he will make significant contributions in this capacity."