Rovers youth coach George Boateng has been linked with a managerial role in Northern Ireland.

Boateng arrived at Rovers last summer and has predominantly managed the Under-13s, though has also worked with other age groups within the club’s Academy.

The 43-year-old former Holland international has previously held a managerial post in Malaysia, but that is his sole experience to date.

But the Belfast Telegraph are reporting that Boateng has put his name in the frame to be the manager NIFL side Coleraine.

They have been without a manager since they parted company with Rodney McAree by mutual consent on May 10.

Boateng is said to be an outsider for the role however, with ex-Rovers assistant boss Neil McDonald among those who have expressed an interest in taking charge.

Applications have now ended, with chairman Colin McKendry and the Bannsiders board set to make their decision within the next couple of weeks.

Boateng did some of his coaching badges in Ireland and has spoken of his intention to manage at first-team level.

“I’ve already managed at first-team level in Malaysia, so on a long-term basis my goal is to be a manager at that level, yes,” he said.

“There’s no rush; I believe that it’s important to get your experience and learn your trade. It’s not always the case that a good player becomes a good manager, the two are totally different, so I’ll put in the hours and the work to earn that right.

“It was the same when I was a player, I would have to try to work my way up, and I’m enjoying it. It’s nice to start in this way, and at this club.”

Coleraine and Rovers did business last summer when Brad Lyons made the switch to East Lancashire initially on loan, before that was made permanent in January.

Chairman McKendry said: "Our plan is to compile a shortlist and come up with the right person to take charge of Coleraine and move our club forward."