Stephen O'Donnell sacked as Dundalk manager

Dundalk have confirmed that Stephen O'Donnell has been relieved of his duties on the back of a poor start to the 2024 SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division season.

The Lilywhites have failed to win a game this season with just three draws in eight matches. They are four points off ninth place Drogheda United and seven from overall safety.

"Dundalk FC can confirm that Stephen O'Donnell has been relieved of his duties as head coach," said a statement issued by the Louth club.

"The club has also parted ways with assistant manager Patrick Cregg. We would like to thank Stevie and Padge for their efforts over the past two-and-a-half years."

O'Donnell returned to the club after winning the FAI Cup with St Patrick's Athletic in 2021, controversially walking out on the Saints just days after lifting the trophy.

Dundalk FC can confirm that Stephen O'Donnell has been relieved of his duties as head coach.

The club has also parted ways with assistant manager Patrick Cregg.

We would like to thank Stevie and Padge for their efforts over the past two-and-a-half years.

Ownership issues have hindered O'Donnell, with difficulties recruiting players in the off-season added to the transition from PEAK6 to a local consortium in 2022, and to Brian Ainscough in 2023.

"This has been a very difficult decision to make," said Ainscough on the decision to part ways with O'Donnell.

"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.

"Stephen and Patrick have worked tirelessly to improve the club over the past two-and-a-half years and I would like to thank both of them for their commitment,