Derry City and Devine part company

Derry City have parted company with Declan Devine after a frustrating season in which an early title challenge fell apart to such an extent the club's supporters must hope that Sligo Rovers win the FAI Cup next Sunday in order for their side to qualify for Europe.

In a statement last night, City chairman Philip O’Doherty said the decision had been reached mutually but the manager, who led the club to the cup 12 months ago at the end of his first season in charge, was believed to be under pressure after a run in August and September that yielded just six points from a possible 24.

The team rallied in recent weeks to see off a challenge from Shamrock Rovers for fourth place and rounded off the campaign in some style, beating Limerick 6-0, but they finished 10 points behind Sligo in third and 15 adrift of champions St Patrick's Athletic.