Fortune's departure from Athlone Town FC announced

Coach Colin Fortune is no longer involved with Athlone Town FC, the club's board confirmed in a statement issued this afternoon (Thursday).

Athlone Town have not yet appointed a first team manager following the departure of Ricardo Monsanto from the role last week.

The club said its search for a new manager was continuing and it hoped to make an announcement about the position 'in the short term.'

Until a new manager is appointed, Ricardo Cravos will remain on as interim manager, the club said.

Colin Fortune served as manager of the first team during the 2016 season and for the first two league fixtures this year. More recently, he has been the club's head coach.

'I would like to take this opportunity to thank the club and everyone involved, especially the staff and players that came in during my tenure and gave me and the club every support and help and without them the future of the club would have been severely hampered,' said Fortune in today's statement.

'I would like to thank all the supporters for their support and help through what were difficult times, and I would encourage you to continue your support for the club.'

'I would like to wish the club every success and ask everyone to now respect my privacy as I won’t be taking any questions in regards as to any issues around this decision,' concluded Fortune.

The club said that, 'during his time as a player and much respected coach Colin has been exceptional for Athlone Town AFC both on and off the field.

'There can be no doubt that Colin, a native of the town, provided the club with a sterling service and conducted himself in a most dignified manner during what were exceptionally trying times.

'The club can only offer its gratitude to Colin and wish him and his family the very best for the future,' said the statement.