Ian Ryan named assistant manager at UCD as Evan McMillan departs

UCD 's groundbreaking under-19 National League-winning coach Ian Ryan has returned to the club to take up the role of assistant to first team manager Collie O'Neill.

Ryan parted company with the club shortly after sealing a first under-19 league title for the Students

in 2016.

He was replaced by former Bray Wanderers coach Maciej Tarnogrodski, who led the team to the semi-finals of this year's league and a first round elimination from the UEFA Youth League.

Ryan represented Shamrock Rovers, Dundalk, Drogheda United and Shelbourne during a distinguished playing career before retiring prematurely aged 28 while playing for UCD.

He took over the role of under-19 manager shortly afterwards and guided the team to the title in his only season in charge, beating Galway United in the final.

“I'm happy to bring Ian on board,” O'Neill told the club's media team.

“Having worked with him before at UCD, he already understands the running of the club, what we're about and how to work with younger players.

“He has a winning mentality and has a lot to offer the group."

The Dubliner replaces former UCD defender Evan McMillan, who has been forced to step down from the role due to work commitments after working alongside O'Neill for three years.

O'Neill added: "I can't thank Evan enough for all his hard work and dedication to the job over the last 3 years.

“He is a top class, insightful coach who has helped develop and nurture a lot of the players at UCD."