FORMER Celtic winger Paddy McCourt concedes he’s keen for a fresh challenge after departing from his Derry City technical director role.
The Candystripes announced that the ex-Northern Ireland international was leaving his hometown club after eight years of service as a player and academy manager as well as in his current position.
McCourt decided to hang up his boots in 2018 then within a few months he took over as the Brandywell club’s head of youth development, working alongside the then City gaffer Kenny Shiels.
Two years later he was part of the then manager Declan Devine’s backroom team.
The 40-year-old has been absent from the club in the past two years after fighting to clear his name over a sexual assault charge, winning his appeal last month against conviction and bringing a difficult chapter in his life to a close.
In a statement released by the club, McCourt said he is excited about the future.
“I would like to thank the club for the opportunity as both a player and as academy manager and technical director for which I am forever grateful,” he said.
“The eight years I spent at Derry City FC have been some of the most enjoyable of my career, but I feel at this time that a fresh challenge is something I need to pursue.
“I appreciate the club’s understanding of my wishes in this regard. I wish the club every success in the future and look forward to attending games in the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium as a fan this season.
“Best of luck to Ruaidhrí Higgins, his staff and the players for the season ahead.”
The club thanked McCourt for his efforts over the years, stating: “Following discussions with Patrick, he has decided that he would like to pursue a fresh challenge away from the club and we would like to thank him for his service to Derry City FC.
“All at the club want to wish Patrick all the best in his future endeavours.” City chairman Philip O’Doherty also praised the former Derry winger.
“Patrick has been a great servant to Derry City FC in his spells at the club. He will forever be welcome in the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium and I personally would like to thank him for his efforts at the club,” said O’Doherty.
“I fully respect his wishes to pursue new challenges and wish him all the best for the future.”
Meanwhile, Derry are also expected to announce the departure of assistant manager Paddy McLaughlin in the next few days.
The former Cliftonville boss was informed by Higgins just before Christmas that he wasn’t part of his plans and the ex-Institute gaffer hasn’t reported back for pre-season training, as discussions continued in the background background to settle his exit agreement.