Mahon and UCD part ways

SOCCER:Pete Mahon is the latest eircom League manager to part with his employer after he left UCD by mutual consent today.

"I am disappointed to leave UCD," said Mahon in a joint-statement with the club today. "It is a club with great foundations and I am happy to have played my role in the development of young players at the club. I wish them every success for the future."

Club secretary Dick Shakespere added: "Pete has made an enormous contribution to the development and stability of this club over the last five years or so.

"We were unable to agree with Pete's plans for this season and regrettably we agreed to part company.

"We thank him for his contribution and we are very sorry that he will no longer be with us. We also respect Pete's decision and will continue to have an excellent relationship with him."

Martin Russell has been appointed as caretaker manager in the interim.

Last week, Johnny McDonnell left St. Patrick’s Athletic because of the club’s decision to go part-time in the coming season.

Alan Mathews was sacked as Cork City boss despite winning the Setanta Cup with the Leesiders, while Stephen Henderson stepped down from relegated Cobh Ramblers.

Mahon’s departure, therefore, means four of the 12 clubs that competed in the Premier Division last year are without a manager.

Drogheda United boss Paul Doolin, meanwhile, has been heavily linked with Mathews's old job and is reported to be in Cork discussing the position with new owner Tom Coughlan.

Cork have also announced that former Ireland midfielder Colin Healy has become the latest member of the squad to commit to the club by signing a two year contract.

“I’m delighted to have signed for Cork City for the next two years. I’m looking forward to the season ahead, and hopefully we can push on from last season and enjoy further success in 2009,” said the former Sunderland and Celtic player.