Lilywhites lining up swift appointment

Soccer: O’Donnell dismissed after poor start to the season

DUNDALK FC are hoping to move quickly to appoint a new manager following Stephen O’Donnell’s dismissal on Monday morning.

The 38-year-old paid the price for his side’s poor start to the season as he was relieved of his duties, alongside assistant Patrick Cregg.

First-team coach Liam Burns and Head of Football Operations Brian Gartland (inset) have been placed in interim charge for this Friday’s visit of St Patrick’s Athletic to Oriel Park when Dundalk will be hoping to secure their first win of the campaign having taken just three of a possible 24 points to date.

The two former Lilywhite players are also expected to be at the helm for Monday’s trip to face Bohe-Bohemians in a rearranged game at Dalymount Park.

However, The Argus understands thatthat owner Brian Ainscough is hoping to have a replacement lined up soon-sooner rather than later, with it not beyond the realms of possibility that the new boss could be in charge for the trip to face Sligo Rovers at The Showgrounds on Friday week, April 19 – a fixture that was moved forward 24 hours from its original Saturday date on Monday.

That depends on ongoing talks with the preferred proceeding but, regardless of the managerial search, the club are hoping to have further good news off the field soon.

It is understood further investment is close to being secured, while the club are also hoping of carrying out the required works which would lead to the reopening of the Youth Development Centre, which has been closed to the public in recent years due to fire safety issues.

A new manager will have a tough task in turning around a start that mirrors the three points from eight matches return from the 1998/’99 season when Dundalk were relegated for the first time.

In a statement to the club website, Ainscough admitted it was a “very difficult decision” in relieving O’Donnell of his position.

“Stephen is, and always will be, a legendary figure at Dundalk FC and is a very talented young coach but football is a results business and, regrettably, our disappointing start to the season has led to this conclusion,” he said. “Stephen and Patrick have worked tirelessly to improveprove the club over the past two-anda-half years and I would like to thank both of them for their commitment, dedication and enthusiasm.

“I wish both of them the very best of luck in their future endeavours and they will always be welcome at Oriel Park.”

Reacting to his departure from the club, O’Donnell said: “It’s obviously a very sad day for myself and Padge. I love Dundalk FC and I love the town so much.

“We always wanted what was the best for Dundalk FC and we worked tirelessly to try and do that.

“I’m proud of our achievements over the past two years, qualifying for Europe and going close again last season.

“The way I left it with Brian was very amicable and I think the club is in really good hands going forward.

“I have no doubt that the players and staff will get the club out of the position they’re in,” he said.