Cork City appoint Frank Kelleher as first team manager until the end of the season

Cork City have announced Frank Kelleher as interim manager until the end of the season, after John Cotter’s spell as manager has come to an end.

Kelleher’s appointment is a part of a wider management restructure from the Rebel Army as the UEFA Pro License holder assumes the the role of first team manager.

John Cotter, who took charge as caretaker following the dismissal of John Caulfield in April has been named first team coach

Alan Bennett will remain as assistant head coach along with Liam Kearney, Colin Healy and Mick Punch as assistant first team coaches and Eddie Hickey as goalkeeping coach.

Kelleher’s appointment sees him become the first manager in the League of Ireland to have managed both woman and men’s sides at the same club.

From 2015 to 2018 Kelleher acted as manager of Cork City’s women’s side, whom he guided the club to their first piece of silverware as they lifted the 2017 FAI Cup.

He worked with the Cork Youth Leagues for three years, supporting the development and transition of local players Cork City’s underage academy.  

Most recently Kelleher, who played for City in the 1980s, has acted as head of academy at Cobh Ramblers.

“It’s great to be back wearing the badge again,” Kelleher told the club’s website.

“I’m a Cork City supporter. This is my club and I’m delighted to play a part for the rest of the season. It’s an honour and a job I will not be taking lightly.”

Cotter added: “I know Frank for a number of years and it’s brilliant to have him as part of the staff.

“He’ll start to be involved leading up to the game against Bohs and we’re all looking forward to getting the heads down now and pushing on the for the rest of the season in the league, Europe and FAI Cup.”

Kelleher won’t take charge of City’s trip to Finn Harps on Monday but will assume the reins ahead of next Friday’s home tie against Bohemians.