McDonnell steps down as Offaly football manager

Emmet McDonnell has stepped down from his role as Offaly football manager after two years in charge, with his tenure described by the county board as "not very fruitful".

It follows their loss to Wicklow in Aughrim last night in Round 1 of the qualifiers yesterday evening.

"Offaly manager Emmet McDonnell has informed Offaly County Board that he is stepping down having been in charge for the last two years," the board said in a statement.

"While in charge, Emmet showed great loyalty, commitment and 100% dedication to the long term future of Offaly football.

"He worked tirelessly and left no stone unturned in his quest to return Offaly football to the top table, but sadly his time in charge was not very fruitful."

The board thanked Emmet and his management team (Gordon McDonnell, Paul Mollen and Ronan Heavey) and all the members of his backroom team for their work and said they wished him the very best for the future.