Billy Dennehy steps down as Kerry FC manager

Kerry FC have confirmed that manager Billy Dennehy has vacated the hot seat at Mounthawk Park to focus on his role as sporting director of the First Division club.

Dennehy's backroom team of Conor McCarthy, James Sugrue and Del O’Shea remain in situ, with former player Shane Guthrie joining as strength and conditioning coach.

Kerry FC's inaugural campaign in the League of Ireland proved a baptism of fire for club and coach, with Dennehy's charges finishing rock bottom in the second tier, picking up just 10 points and finishing with a -62 goal difference.

Explaining his decision, Dennehy said: "I think now is the best time to move into the sporting director role, which was the original position that I was coming into the club as.

"Before the start of last season, things happened so quickly that I was asked to take the manager role of the first team, but it was always the intention to be the sporting director and have more of an overview of the whole club rather than one particular area.

"I’m delighted that James and Conor, along with Del, Chris, Ivan, Mark and Shane, all the people that I brought in with me got invaluable experience working at senior League of Ireland level and I’m happy that they are the team that will be taking the day to day control of the first team group."

McCarthy, who will serve as head coach next season, said: "Firstly, I just want to say I am delighted to be the head coach of Kerry FC for the 2024 season.

"On a personal note, this is a very proud moment for me and my family and I am very grateful for the club’s backing and support.

"This is a very exciting opportunity and one I can’t wait to get started with."

Watch the Women's FAI Cup final, Athlone Town v Shelbourne, on Sunday from 2.15pm on RTÉ2 and