DUNDALK have sacked boss Stephen O’Donnell after a disastrous start to the season.
In a statement, the club confirmed that O’Donnell bad been ‘relieved of his duties as head coach’, along with his assistant Patrick Cregg.
Dundalk are bottom of the Premier Division table with just three points having failed to win any of their first eight games.
Dundalk owner Brian Ainscough said: “This has been a very difficult decision to make.
“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, 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.”
First-team coach Liam Burns – who played with O’Donnell at Bohemians – and Head of Football Operations Brian Gartland – a former Dundalk team-mate of his – have been placed in interim charge while the club look for a permanent successor.
O’Donnell was club captain for the Lilywhites during the glory years when Stephen Kenny was at the helm.
After leading St Pat’s to FAI Cup success, he made an acrimonious exit to take charge at Oriel Park.
He secured European qualification in his first season in charge with a third-place finish but he was not provided with the level of financial backing that was expected from the club’s former owners.
They came fifth last year as well as making an embarrassing FAI Cup exit, losing 4-0 to First Division leaders and eventual champions Galway United.
There have been repeated concerns expressed around their recruitment, with the club relying heavily on cross-channel players, although it was argued the budget made that a necessity.
Ainscough gave up his holding in Kerry FC to acquire the club in the off-season and, despite the poor start to the season, O’Donnell believes things will improve.
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.”