Kearney joins Shiels in leaving Coleraine

Sporting director Oran Kearney has joined head coach Dean Shiels in leaving Coleraine ahead of the club's European play-off.

Shiels and his assistant Michael O'Connor departed the club on Wednesday - just seven days before the European play-off semi-final.

Kearney, who Shiels replaced as manager after the 46-year-old stepped into his role as sporting director, has now also left the club.

Former Derry City manager Ruaidhri Higgins is the frontrunner to take over from Shiels and could be in position for the European play-off semi-final on Wednesday, 7 May.

The Bannsiders will face either Crusaders or Irish Cup finalists Dungannon Swifts in the play-off.

It brings to an end Kearney's 14-year association with the club, after he had two spells as manager either side of a one-season stint as St Mirren boss in 2018.

Kearney won the Irish Cup in 2018 and League Cup two years later, as well as three runner-up finishes in the Irish Premiership.

He also guided the club to a famous win over NK Maribor in Europa League qualifying in 2020.

Henry Ross, executive chairman and majority shareholder at Coleraine, said Kearney had played a "significant role" in the recent history of the club.

"From his time in the dugout to his more recent position, Oran has always approached his responsibilities with dedication. On behalf of the board, the players, and our supporters, I want to sincerely thank Oran."