'I nearly came to tears' - John Sheridan has brought an end to his managerial career

John Sheridan during his spell as Waterford manager in 2020. 

FORMER Republic of Ireland player John Sheridan has announced his retirement as a manager.

Sheridan, 57, left National League side Oldham Athletic last weekend and has confirmed he will not be managing again.

"I won't manage another team,” said Sheridan who had seven spells as a player and manager at Oldham.

"I don't think I'll get the opportunity anyway. I love football. It's looked after me. I just feel that my age and for me to try to be happier it is time to concentrate on other things.

“And I'm so pleased it's Oldham (where I finished). I haven't achieved anything but I just want the club to go forward.

"I don't cry much but I nearly came to tears. The fans are unbelievable. They've supported me as a player and a manager, whenever I've been here. I've always, for some reason, got on with them and they get on with me.

"They are good supporters, they've had hard times as well. I just wish them all the luck in the world. I'll be coming back and supporting the team. I'll be here for the Wrexham game. I've been a supporter who was lucky enough to manage the team. I'm just a supporter now."

The much-travelled Sheridan also had managerial spells at Plymouth, Newport County, Notts County, Fleetwood Town, Carlisle, Chesterfield, Wigan Athletic and Swindon Town.

And there was a short but colourful tenure at Waterford in 2020. 

But it was at Oldham he became a firm favourite as both player and manager, despite mixed results across his various spells in charge.

"Being honest I don't think I've done that well the last couple of years, whereas I had a really good record, I'm very grateful I got the opportunity.

"I think a few of the lads will be well happy because they won't hear my voice shouting. Whoever the next manager or coach is gets them going because I think there's a good group of players there, if they stay fit and start picking one or two results up - they've got to believe and push each other."