Waterford FC has announced that Alan Reynolds has left the club.
He is the first high profile managerial casualty of the Covid-19 crisis. The club issued a statement this lunchtime saying they "completely understand his decision".
Alan Reynolds spent three years in management securing promotion from the First to Premier Division in his first year with the club.
He then drove the club on to reach a European position in 2018, to then consolidate Waterford as a top flight club in 2019.
The club has thanked Alan for all his hard work over the years and establishing the club as a strong contender in the League of Ireland.
Reynolds has been linked to coaching roles with Dundalk and the Republic of Ireland Under-21 team.
Waterford FC are very sad to hear Alan Reynolds has decided to move on after three brilliant years in management. With League of Ireland in a very difficult position, we completely understand his decision. #WaterfordFC #Blueshttps://t.co/Vl3uvrKT5X
— Waterford FC (@WaterfordFCie) June 16, 2020
Alan Reynolds has issued a statement saying that after three and a half years as manager the time has come to say goodbye.
"I feel honoured and privileged to have had the opportunity to manage my hometown club not once but twice. This is a club I grew up supporting and that is something I will continue to do.
"This is one of the most difficult decisions I’ve had to take in my football career however having given the decision due consideration I believe the time is right for all parties to go their separate ways. The club is in a far healthier position today than it was when we took over in January 2017 and there is no doubt that we have helped establish Waterford FC as one of Ireland’s premier clubs.
"We have shared some truly memorable moments over the past 3 and a half seasons including winning promotion at the first time of asking in 2017 and finishing in 4th position in 2018 however my biggest achievement as manager of Waterford FC was finishing in 6 th place this season in extremely challenging circumstances. With 6 points from 4 games this season, I feel we are in a strong position to push and try to qualify for Europe again.
"I would like to take the opportunity to thank all of the players, staff, club volunteers, RSC staff for all their help. A special mention and thanks to Michael Walsh and Tony Burke for all their work behind the scenes.
"To all the dedicated Blues fans, I would like to thank you for your support during my time as manager, we have had some great nights along the way and it’s something I will never forget. Thank You!"
