Athlone Town have this evening confirmed that first team head coach, Colin Fortune, has parted ways with the club.
Fortune, who has previously served as the club's manager after his appointment last December, was replaced by Ricardo Monsanto in March.
"I wish to inform everyone that I am no longer involved with Athlone Town AFC," he said in a statement on Thursday evening.
"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.
"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.
"Finally, 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."
Monsanto has since left his post as manager of the club, with first team coach Ricardo Cravo stepping in for Athlone's clash with Wexford FC last week.
Their search for a permanent manager continues and the club say they're grateful for Fortune's service.
"The board of Athlone Town AFC can confirm that Colin Fortune has left the club," a club statement read.
"Colin served the club as both first team manager, after taking the reigns during the 2016 season, and more lately as Athlone Town AFC’s head coach.
"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."
Athlone, who sit sixth in the First Division, face Longford Town on Saturday evening.
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