BARRY Gray has stepped down as manager of Newry City to focus on his recovery from cancer. Gray, who took over from Gary Boyle at the helm of the county Down club in January, has been undergoing treatment for several weeks and has decided take a break from managing the NI Premiership club.
Dermot McVeigh will take over as caretaker with Gavin Dykes coming in as his assistant.
A club statement read: “The committee of Newry City AFC wishes to inform our supporters that manager Barry Gray will be stepping away from first team duties for the time being.
“Barry has been undergoing cancer treatment for a number of weeks and feels the time is now right to focus solely on his recovery.
“Former club captain and personal friend of Barry’s, Gavin Dykes will assist Dermot McVeigh and the current coaching staff for the upcoming games beginning away to Glenavon on Saturday.
“We know that all supporters and indeed the wider football family will join us in sending Barry our best wishes and we hope to see him return to the club when he is fit and able to do so.”