Derry City 'in no rush' to appoint permanent manager says Mark Connolly

MARK Connolly insists Derry City Football Club won't be rushed into appointing a permanent successor to Tiernan Lynch.

The 34-year-old Monaghan man was appointed Director of Football at Brandywell last June before being ushered into the vacant managerial role as interim boss last week.

Mark Connolly says Derry City is in no rush to appoint permanent manager. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

placeholder image — Mark Connolly says Derry City is in no rush to appoint permanent manager. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

He's expected to 'steady the ship' after a turbulent few months but he will also be heavily involved in the process of recruiting a new manager.

Unsurprisingly, Connolly confirmed there has been 'plenty of interest' in the position since Lynch's sudden departure last week with a number of current League of Ireland top flight managers among those known to be interested.

Interim manager Mark Connolly during a Derry City open training session at The Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium in Derry. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Connolly says the club won't be making any 'rash decisions'.

"Listen there's been plenty of interest," said Connolly. "Obviously you have texts and phone calls from people. Derry City is a very, very attractive job.

"There's a big review at the club and a lot of changes are happening," he revealed.

"It's been quite quick but ultimately we're sitting back, behind the scenes and having a review. My job is now to steady the ship and that's a day-to-day process."

Asked if there was an ideal timeframe to appoint a new boss given there was nine games and a potential cup run remaining to save their season, Connolly responded: "There won't be any rush. There won't be any rash decisions.

"Ultimately, we have to make sure whatever happens we get it right for the football club.

"We have an infrastructure here at the football club, we have a brand new pitch, a brand new stand and things are happening behind the scenes that are amazing.

"We have to make sure we do everything right, and when we get this club right, it's a monster."

Connolly got his reign in the Brandywell hotseat off to the perfect start with a comprehensive win at home to Sligo Rovers but he was coy when asked if the permanent role would be something he would consider.

"Director of Football is my job and until I'm told otherwise then we'll see but all of a sudden my remit has changed from Director of Football to interim manager.

"I've enjoyed it but I'm just trying to take it day by day and see how it goes."