Kennedy leaves Waterford

Midfielder Richie Kennedy’s contract with Waterford United has been terminated by mutual consent, just five weeks after he signed for the club.

Blues manager Alan Reynolds signed the 25-year-old Rathgormack, Co Waterford native on May 21.

Kennedy had come home from England having started his professional career at Crystal Palace as a 16-year-old and spent time at Brentford, Barry Town and Forest Green.

He made an impressive debut in the home draw with Cork City on May 28 but the club yesterday issued a statement which said: “Following discussions between Kennedy and Alan Reynolds, it was agreed by the manager, that in Richie's best interests, he would be allowed leave.

“He is expected to take a complete break from football. Waterford United thanks Richie for his efforts and commitment over the past few weeks and wishes him well in the future.”

Player-boss Reynolds also spent yesterday bringing in former players Wayne Russell and Paschal Keane as members of his backroom staff.

Reynolds said Keane and former Glentoran, Bohemians and Blues keeper Russell will work with the all the players in the club.