FORMER Cliftonville manager Paddy McLaughlin has left his position as Derry CIty assistant manager.
The 44-year-old, who was informed in December that he would no longer be working with the Foylesiders first team, has left his position as Ruaidhrí Higgins’ number two by ‘mutual consent’.
McLaughlin is believed to have been told of the decision after a meeting with Higgins just before Christmas and he was not present as Derry players began pre-season training last month.
The Creggan man was appointed assistant boss last April after a successful four years at the Reds and helped the Candy Stripes secure second spot in the League of Ireland Premier Division.
However, he left his role ‘by mutual consent’ according to a club statement released this evening.
“Derry City FC can confirm that Paddy McLaughlin will leave the club by mutual consent,” began the short statement.
“Paddy joined the club as Assistant Manager during the 2023 season and helped Derry to a second-place finish in the league and successfully through two rounds in the Europa Conference League for which the club would like to express their sincere thanks.
“We wish Paddy every success in his next role, and we would hope to see him at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium supporting his hometown club when his schedule allows.”
The Brandywell men’s gaffer also wished McLaughlin ‘nothing but the best’ in the future.
“Paddy has done really well in management to date and I’ve no doubt that will continue and I genuinely wish him nothing but the best,” stated Higgins, who now begins his search for another assistant manager, with ex-number two Alan Reynolds believed to be his number one target.