Waterford caretaker manager steps down

Waterford United caretaker manager Giles Cheevers has announced he is to leave the club to take up the post of head coach at Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville, USA.

Cheevers joined the club as coach under Jimmy McGeough and took up the reins as caretaker manager following Alan Reynolds' departure last month.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for me and one I could not turn down," said Cheevers.

"It is regrettable that I am leaving Waterford in the middle of the season but matters have moved a little quicker than I thought and I will be leaving for the United States next week."

Waterford United director Martin Colbert has paid tribute to Giles for his efforts with the Blues over the past number of seasons.

"Giles is an excellent coach whose talents have been widely recognised in the game. He has worked hard for Waterford United and the team's development is a result of his efforts and commitment.

"While we are all saddened by his departure, we recognise that opportunities like this come along once in a lifetime. We would like to thank Giles for his dedication to Waterford United and wish him and his family the very best for their new life in Nashville."

Cheevers will step down following Friday night's game against St Patrick's Athletic.

The directors will be meeting over the next few days to discuss a replacement.