Shane Ronayne pulls out of the running to replace Eamonn Ryan

The top contender to replace Eamonn Ryan as Cork ladies senior football team manager has sensationally pulled out of the race.

Shane Ronayne says he has “become somewhat disillusioned with the protracted and long drawn-out process” to find Ryan’s successor.

Ronayne worked alongside Ryan for the last two years and also guided Mourneabbey to an All-Ireland senior club final appearance before Christmas.

Ronayne took UCC to O’Connor Cup glory in 2012 and is a previous Cork U16 team manager.

He’s also a teacher at Coláiste Dun Iascaigh in Cahir and in his time there, Ronayne has overseen four All-Ireland titles (three girls and one boys).

Ronayne is also a former Cahir senior men’s team manager and he’s also been in charge of the Tipp ladies intermediate team (2008), as well as the minors and U16s.

He’s confirmed he’s staying on with Mourneabbey for the 2016 season and preparations are also well underway for UCC’s assault on the O’Connor Cup — but Ronayne will not be putting his name forward for the Cork role.

Ronayne confirmed: “I’m withdrawing my name from the running for the job. I remain interested in it but I’ve become somewhat disillusioned with the protracted and long drawn-out process.

“I had approached a number of people to come on board with me but they and I can’t wait around forever.

“One of those people has taken on another job in the meantime. He said he would work with me but he couldn’t wait around.

“I thought things would be sorted at this stage. I’ve already turned down a number of different GAA teams, male and female, but I have a couple of other offers on the table.

“But the whole Cork process is taking too long and I’m pulling out. I would like to wish the team all the very best for the coming season and I certainly enjoyed my time involved with Cork ladies football.”

Ronayne’s bombshell decision has left Cork ladies football board chiefs with a dilemma.

No manager is in place with just over a week to go before the Rebels begin the defence of their Lidl Division 1 League crown with a home clash against Mayo.

Cork may begin the League campaign with a caretaker manager in place, as they struggle to find Ryan’s permanent replacement.