First-team coach John Cotter leaves Cork City following Neale Fenn's appointment

First-team coach John Cotter has announced his departure from Cork City on Twitter just 24 hours after Neale Fenn was announced as permanent manager.

“I have officially left Cork City,” the former interim manager said.

“I have loved my time with the club and have made many great friends in that time.

“I would like to thank all the players, staff and supporters who all shared in the success we had and wish them even more success.”

The announcement comes only a day after new City boss Fenn confirmed that Cotter would be a part of his coaching staff.

“I feel the time is right to part ways with the club and to leave the new head coach take over with a clean slate,” Cotter told the club’s official website.

“I would like to thank the players and backroom team for the huge success brought to the club since 2014.

“I wish the board, staff and players all the best for the rest of the 2019 season and I look forward to attending games as a supporter in the near future.

“I have been immensely proud to have been involved with such a great club for so many years in which time the club has enjoyed great success.

“I leave with only fond memories of my time at the club.”

Cotter's was part of the Caulfield management team that brought Cork City to the brink of Irish football, including their 2017 double success, the 2016 FAI Cup and multiple President Cups and Munster Senior Cup successes.

The former City player played a key role in many European nights at the Cross, acting behind the scenes as they reached the third qualifying round of the Europa League in 2016 and 2018.

Cotter was thrown into the spotlight in 2018 following the dismissal of John Caulfield where he stepped in as interim manager.

The former midfielder took charge through May and June, seeing the club record wins against UCD and Bohemians.

Even after Frank Kelleher took charge, Cotter remained overseeing the squad through training each day.

Cork City chairman Declan Carey gave his thanks for Cotter’s services to the club.

“Everyone at the club is hugely grateful for everything John Cotter has done for the club in recent years and in particular over these last few challenging months.

“John leaves the club with all of our best wishes and we look forward to welcoming John to Turner’s Cross in the future.”