Alan Sheehan achieved his Uefa pro licence, European football’s highest coaching credential, in 2024.
Swansea City have named Alan Sheehan as their head coach on a three-year contract, after his impressive term as interim manager.
Sheehan caught the eye after stepping in as caretaker in February, following Luke Williams’ departure, steering the Swans away from relegation fears with strong performances.
The 38-year-old Irish coach now takes charge in his first permanent managerial post, given an opportunity to build a lasting legacy at the club.
“It’s a privilege to be part of this club, and I’m honoured to be officially appointed as head coach,” Sheehan said to Swansea’s official website.
“It feels somewhat surreal. There’s been a positive atmosphere here, and in recent months I’ve talked about building for the future.
“I’ve been in discussions with ownership for some time and remain committed to our vision for progress. This is an excellent moment to move forward.”
Swansea were facing the threat of relegation when Williams departed, having suffered seven defeats in nine league games.
However, with Sheehan at the helm, the club have guaranteed a top-half finish after collecting 23 points from his 12 matches in charge.
Previously an assistant at Luton Town and Southampton, Sheehan was initially given a five-game interim stint before agreeing in March to lead the club for the season’s remainder.
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Since assuming control in mid-February, Alan Sheehan has guided Swansea to seven wins in 12 matches, with only three losses.
Director of football Richard Montague commented: “Alan has hugely impressed us during his second spell as interim head coach.”
“It was essential to complete a thorough and comprehensive recruitment process for our new head coach.”
“We are confident we have made the right decision and that Alan is the coach to lead the club into the future.”
Sheehan expressed consistent interest in the permanent position but has emphasised the importance of aligning his vision with the club’s future strategy.
The former left-back joined Swansea as assistant head coach in summer 2023, reuniting with ex-sporting director Paul Watson, with whom he previously worked at Luton.
Initially part of Michael Duff’s coaching staff, Sheehan first acted as caretaker boss in December 2023, securing 11 points from seven matches before Williams’ arrival in January.
He then returned to the backroom team before stepping up for a second time after Williams’ departure.
At that stage, Swansea sat 17th – eight points above the drop zone – but have since surged to 11th with an impressive run of results.
After last weekend’s defeat at Millwall ended Swansea’s remote play-off hopes, the side conclude the season at home to Oxford United on Saturday (12:30 BST).
Chief executive Tom Gorringe added: “Alan has displayed excellent leadership and tactical understanding during his interim tenure.”
“Together, we are optimistic Alan is the right leader to take Swansea City forward, building on the recent momentum.”
“We’re eager and confident about our potential moving into the future.”
The club will confirm Sheehan’s backroom team in due course.
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