Sky Blues turn to Dowie

Updated 09.52 Mon Feb 19 2007

Keywords: Championship, Coventry City, Iain Dowie

Iain Dowie is back in football management having put pen to paper to a three-and-a-half year contract at Coventry City.

The 42-year-old former Northern Ireland striker controversially walked out on Crystal Palace for Charlton Athletic last summer, but was sacked by the Addicks in November after winning just four of his 15 games in The Valley hotseat.

"Iain was incredibly impressive on the occasions we met and there is no doubt that he was by far the strongest candidate in all of the criteria we set" - Coventry City managing director Paul Fletcher

Sky Blues managing director Paul Fletcher has every confidence in Dowie, telling reporters: "When we decided to appoint a new manager, we set a number of criteria, in conjunction with a supporters' committee, which we felt were essential in selecting the right candidate.

"Iain was incredibly impressive on the occasions we met and there is no doubt that he was by far the strongest candidate in all of the criteria we set.

"This is undoubtedly an exciting time for everyone involved with the Sky Blues and we feel that we have the best available person to help take Coventry City forward, which is essential for the growth of our club."

Dowie will take charge of Coventry for the first time for the visit of his former club Southampton in the Championship tomorrow night.