Alan Reynolds has left his post as manager of Waterford FC. Reynolds took over as the Blues manager back in 2017. At the time they were playing in the League of Ireland First Division.
It was during his first season in charge Waterford gained promotion to the Premier Division. They won the league that year with an eight-point lead over Cobh Ramblers.
Their arrival to the top tier of Irish football was a success. They finished 4th and in a European spot impressing many on the way. It was only due to a technicality that stopped them from playing in Europe the following season. With St. Patricks Athletic stepping in as their replacement for Europe in 2018.
Waterford have been a regular in the Premier Division since their promotion. Many fans will now worry as Reynolds was an excellent manager for the club.
In a statement released by Waterford the club said they were “very sad” to learn about the departure of Alan Reynolds.
It’s a difficult time for Waterford and this certainly hasn’t helped. The club temporarily laid off players and staff. However, the club have been very understanding with the decision of Reynolds. They also said in their statement “With the League of Ireland in a very difficult position, we completely understand his decision.”
They continued to say “He will be hugely missed throughout the football club by fans, supporters, staff and indeed his players.
“Waterford FC would like to thank Alan for all his hard work over the years and establishing the club as a strong contender in the League of Ireland.
“We wish him and his family all the very best and in what he decides to do in the future.”
What’s next for Alan Reynolds?
We talked about the rumour of him going to Dundalk as assistant manager on the podcast last week. This is still the most likely destination for the Waterford native. It’s a job you could see him being very interested in.
He has also been linked with a background role with the Ireland Under 21 squad. He is an excellent manager and could easily hold out and take under another role in the hot seat of many League of Ireland clubs.
For now, all we can do is speculate. Make sure to keep an eye on the Big Kick Off where we will keep you updated on this and all other League of Ireland stories.
