Cork City appoint 38-year-old Ger Nash as new boss

The former Aston Villa and Ipswich coach replaces Tim Clancy, who resigned last week.

REBEL WITH A CAUSE: Gerard Nash says he's thrilled to take over at Turner's Cross.

Cork City have announced Gerard Nash as the new manager to spearhead their drive to avoid a second relegation in three years.

Tim Clancy’s departure in the immediate aftermath of last Friday’s 2-1 defeat that left the side marooned in the relegation playoff spot led to a series of interviews this week.

Owner Dermot Usher almost lured Nash (38) to the post before Clancy’s arrival in November 2023 but he’s finally got his man for his first standalone role as a senior boss.

Nash was a promising young defender, part of an age-group that included Paul McShane, Stephen Ireland and Joey O'Brien, breaking into the Ipswich Town first-team at 17.

Two serious knee injuries, however, curbed his progress and the difficult decision to retire on medical advice rerouted him into coaching. He spent 14 years at Ipswich in various roles, from Under-23 team coach to loans monitor and even helped with first-team duties on an interim basis after Mick McCarthy in 2018.

Nash took up a role as one of the FAI's High Performance coaches in 2021 before being headhunted by Aston Villa to become head coach of their Under-18 team.

He was most recently assistant Manager of GAIS in Sweden.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be appointed as the new Men’s First Team Manager at Cork City,” said Nash.

“Everyone in Ireland knows the history that the club has, its fantastic support base, and the potential within the existing players. I have watched a lot of the league this season from afar, and I have no doubt that there is so much more we can deliver.

“Everyone in the league knows that Cork City are one of the biggest clubs in the country and Turner’s Cross is a great place to watch a game of football. I know we have quality in the dressing room, and I cannot wait to get started.” 

Usher added: “I am very pleased to welcome Ger to the club. He has a long and very impressive track record as a coach, and he really impressed us with his thoughts on taking on the role. From speaking to him, I know how motivated he is to take on the job, and I know he will give it everything he has. Everyone at the club wants to see us improve and begin to climb the table, and I share Ger’s belief that we have the talent in our dressing room to improve.” 

Liam Kearney and Greg Yelverton will take charge of the team for Friday night’s game away to St. Patrick’s Athletic. Nash’s first game at the helm will be away to Galway United on Friday week.

GAIS, who were last year promoted to Sweden’s top-flight, gave the Irishman their best wishes upon his departure.

“What Gerard has achieved during his time here has been incredibly valuable to the business, both in the first team and in the academy,” said Technical Director Magnus Sköldmark.

“He has focused on the development of our young talents to help them grow and mature in their football, while also being a highly valued coach for the academy coaches. This is a role that should not be underestimated, and which will be important for the club's continued success.” 

Nash said: I really want to thank everyone at GAIS; players, managers, office staff and board! It is a very special club, with a unique environment and unique people! I am convinced that GAIS will continue to achieve its high goals, just as the club has done in recent years."