Devine: 'Ridiculous expectations' leading to managerial changes in League of Ireland

Bohemians boss Declan Devine believes "ridiculous expectations" are leading to managerial changes early in the League of Ireland Premier Division following two departures this week.

Tim Clancy and Colin Healy stepped away from positions at St Patrick's Athletic and Cork City respectively having disappointed in the 12 games played so far.

The Saints had been expected to get closer to a title challenge this year, while new City owner Dermot Usher said his minimum expectation was staying in the division.

Usher said in February: "If we finish fourth or fifth that would be a superb season. Staying up is the number one goal. I’d certainly expect and hope us to do that. There’s been money spent on the squad."

Pat’s are seventh following six defeats in 13 matches. Bottom side UCD are on the tails of Cork City given the Rebels have registered just two victories.

In an usual move, both Clancy and Healy have resigned, having achieved targets last year of European qualification and promotion.

Devine, who was a surprise appointment by Bohs last year, feels clubs should be more patient.

"First and foremost they are two fantastic managers. They have both done extremely well at their clubs. I've said this before, sometimes clubs need to be careful what they wish for. These guys are spilling their blood and spending their life away from their family to work so hard. It's a difficult job.

"But expectations in the league are ridiculous at the minute. Cork have come up from the First Division which is not easy. It's extremely harsh on Colin.

"For Tim, he got into Europe and two weeks ago they were second in the table. That can happen. I'm very disappointed clubs have come to this decision but at the same time we all come into the these jobs knowing