Castlebar Celtic appoint new manager following Ciaran Kelly's departure

CASTLEBAR Celtic have moved quickly to replace Ciaran Kelly as first team manager with the appointment of Ryan Casey.

Casey takes over from Kelly, who had been in the role since November 2015, with immediate effect.

The new manager, who holds the UEFA A Certificate, has spent the last five years as director of coaching at US Development Academy club Everton FC Westchester, based in Connecticut, north of New York City.

Galway native Casey has had an extremely distinguished career to date, as both a player and coach. He was part of the Ireland Under 18 squad - alongside Robbie Keane, Richard Dunne and more - that won the UEFA European Championships in 1998.

Casey also spent time playing with Swansea City in the UK along with Cork City and Athlone Town, amongst others, during a distinguished League of Ireland playing career.

He also worked as the regional development officer in Sligo for the Football Association of Ireland before moving to the US to further his coaching career.

In a statement, Castlebar Celtic said they are 'extremely excited' by the appointment of Casey, and look forward to him having a positive impact on the future of the team and club.

The club also took the opportunity to thank Ciaran Kelly for his work with the club over his 16-month tenure. Ciaran won the Connacht Gold Super Cup in 2016 and provided a new level of belief, determination and positivity to the first team and club. He is wished the best of luck with his future endeavours from all at Castlebar Celtic.