Paddy McCourt ready for new challenge after leaving Derry City role

Paddy McCourt has left Derry City

Paddy McCourt says he is keen to pursue a fresh challenge after leaving Derry City.

The club announced today that the former Northern Ireland international was leaving the club after eight years’ service as a player, Academy manager and technical director.

McCourt took over as head of youth development at the club in November 2018 before then being appointed technical director at the club in January 2020.

McCourt has been absent from the club in the past two years after fighting to clear his name against a sexual assault charge, winning his appeal against a conviction just last month, bringing a difficult chapter in his life to a close.

The 39-year-old is now keen to start afresh, and he has decided to leave Derry City as a result.

In a statement released by the club, McCourt said: “I would like to thank the club for the opportunity as both a player and as Academy Manager and Technical Director, for which I am forever grateful. The 8 years I spent at Derry City FC have been some of the most enjoyable of my career, but I feel at this time that a fresh challenge is something I need to pursue.

“I appreciate the club’s understanding of my wishes in this regard. I wish the club every success in the future and look forward to attending games in the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium as a fan this season. Best of luck to Ruaidhrí Higgins, his staff and the players for the season ahead.”

The club thanked McCourt for his efforts over the years.

The statement added: “Following discussions with Patrick, he has decided that he would like to pursue a fresh challenge away from the club and we would like to thank him for his service to Derry City FC. All at the club want to wish Patrick all the best in