Allen resigns as Limerick hurling manager

Limerick will swiftly begin their search for a new senior hurling manager after Corkman John Allen decided to step down from the position following a two-year stint in charge.

Allen's departure was announced officially at a meeting of the Limerick County Board in Claughaun last night, just two months after he guided the Shannonsiders to their first Munster SHC title since 1996.

In a statement read out at the meeting, Allen said: "It was a very difficult decision to make but I think it's the correct decision for the team."

Limerick GAA officials, players and supporters were hoping that Allen would extend his managerial run given their provincial success this summer, but he has opted to bow out following the completion of his two-year term - his final game was last month's All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Clare.

A statement from Limerick GAA read: "While obviously disappointed that John has decided not to seek the extension to his term, all those involved in Limerick GAA respect his decision, thank him unequivocally for his time as Limerick manager and wish him every success in the future.

"Limerick GAA would also like to take this opportunity compliment John and his entire backroom team for their commitment and professionalism to Limerick GAA since their appointments.

"The entire Limerick senior hurling panel, the players, management and backroom staff have the thanks of Limerick GAA for their outstanding contribution to a wonderful summer for Limerick hurling.

"The relationship between the management, players and County Board was exemplary with everyone working side by side for the betterment of Limerick hurling."

The statement added: "Limerick GAA will immediately begin the process of identifying a new Limerick senior hurling manager that can help build on the undoubted progress made under John Allen's tenure as manager."

The resignation of the former Cork All-Ireland winning manager leaves Limerick looking for their fourth senior hurling boss in five years. As the statement suggests, Limerick officials are keen to move quickly in finding Allen's successor.

County Secretary Mike O'Riordan told last night's meeting that they hope to 'have a proposal ready for the October County Board meeting'.

O'Riordan is part of a five-man sub committee that has been established to propose the new Limerick hurling supremo - the other members of the sub committee are treasurer Donal Morrissey and independent trio Damien Quigley, Jim Woulfe and Paudie Fitzmaurice.

Outgoing selector John Kiely and Limerick's 2011 Munster Under-21 winning manager Leo O'Connor are potential candidates from within the county, while a move for an outsider could see Tipperary's Liam Sheedy, Ken Hogan and Nicky English come into contention.