Simon Grayson enlisted as advisor to Cork City board

The former Preston North End and Sunderland manager is the newest face at Cork City.

Simon Grayson. Pic: Lewis Storey/Getty Images

Cork City haven’t yet appointed a manager but have enlisted an advisor in Simon Grayson to help fill the vacancy.

Grayson (56) is a former player but best-known as a manager.

He was in charge of Preston North End when they recruited Seáni Maguire from Cork City in 2017 but had left for Sunderland by the time the striker arrived.

Relegated City were left reeling by the abrupt departure of Ger Nash as manager two days before Christmas. Citing personal reasons for his sharp exit, he was soon reemployed, trekking to Sweden as assistant manager of reigning champions Mjällby.

Nash’s assistant David Meyler has led training since the squad returned to training in recent days. 

He, along with Liam Kearney and Mark McNulty, will remain at the helm until a new manager is appointed. 

Pre-season friendlies begin on Wednesday week against Waterford, with the opening First Division fixtures scheduled for Friday, February 14 against Treaty United.

“Grayson's primary focus will be working closely with the board to finalise the appointment of a new first team manager, aligned with the club’s vision and ambition,” read a statement from the club, led by majority shareholder Dermot Usher and David Cronin.

“His role will also include an analysis of the club’s existing football structures in order to establish robust methods and structures.

“This process is designed with the intention of propelling Cork City back to the League of Ireland Premier Division, and reestablishing them there. His appointment comes at a crucial time as the club seeks to reclaim its place among Ireland's elite.

They continued: “Simon brings a distinguished career in football management to Leeside, with an impressive track record that includes multiple league titles and cup triumphs.

“After more than 500 games as a player, Simon counts some 800 games as a manager of clubs such as Blackpool, Leeds United, Preston North End and Sunderland.

“In his time as a manager, he has overseen a win percentage of over 45%, four English Football League promotions, as well as winning trophies in India and Nepal in recent years.

“The partnership between Simon Grayson and Cork City FC represents an alignment of ambition and tradition, as the club gains a leader who understands what it takes to build successful football operations from the boardroom to the pitch.

“While this process is ongoing, the current interim management team of David Meyler, Liam Kearney and Mark McNulty will continue to oversee first team affairs.”