Stephen Baxter appointed new Carrick Rangers manager

Stephen Baxter will return to Irish Premiership management after agreeing to take on the vacant role at Carrick Rangers.

The Taylor's Avenue side parted with Stuart King last week after a loss to Queen's University in the first round of the League Cup.

Baxter forged a reputation as one of the league's best managers during a trophy-laden spell at Crusaders, leaving Seaview at the end of last season after 19 years in charge.

Mark Surgenor and Curtis Allen had been placed in temporary charge following King's exit, leading the side to a 2-0 win over Cliftonville that lifted the side off the foot of the table.

The pair will again take charge of tomorrow night's Glentoran before Baxter assumes control for Saturday's league game at home to Coleraine.

More to follow.