Paddy Christie has stepped down as Longford senior football manager after two seasons in charge.
Former Dublin full-back Christie took the Longford in August 2022 on a three-year basis.
He assumed the role a month after former boss Billy O'Loughlin had departed the post after just one season, but RTÉ Sport can confirm that the midland county will now be seeking a new manager for 2025.
"Today I've informed the Longford GAA Management Committee that I've decided to step away from my position as manager with Longford," Christie said in a statement.
"It was a very difficult decision as I have great admiration for the people in the county - players, management, club delegates, supporters, and the Officers of the County Board.
"I’ve enjoyed my time in Longford, I was treated very well, and made very welcome throughout the county. Big thanks to everyone involved, of which there are too many to mention.
"A special mention to the County Executive, Club Longford and our Team Sponsors, Glennon Brothers who always tried to accommodate any request, big or small and supported us all along the way.
"While results didn’t always go our way, these setbacks shouldn’t take away from a lot of good work done in the last two years which will, I believe, serve the team and County well in to the future.
"I want to wish everyone involved with Longford GAA all the very best for the season ahead."
A selection committee will immediately begin the process of selecting Christie's replacement.
One of Dublin's finest defenders in the 2000s, Christie has carved out a reputation as a coach and manager after undertaking stellar work with his club Ballymun Kickhams and DCU at colleges' level.
He was part of the David Power-led Tipperary senior management team that landed a first Munster SFC title for the Premier County in 85 years back in November 2020.
During his time in Tipp, he also managed the county under-20 team and led them to a Munster final.
With Longford, Christie saw his team win back-to-back O’Byrne Cup titles during his tenure, beating an understrength Dublin at the start of this inter-county season.
Following on from that they finished fourth in the Allianz League Division 4 with a very credible eight points – just two points behind Leitrim who were promoted to Division Three.
In that campaign they played seven games and won four.
In the Leinster championship they also gave a very good account of themselves, losing by seven points, 3-19 to 3-12, to Meath in the provincial preliminary round.
From there, however, they struggled for form and results. The Tailteann Cup was no respite for them with losses to Waterford, Kildare and Leitrim.
And after taking some time to assess, Christie told his players tonight that he would not be continuing in the role.
A number of other counties are already looking for new managers including Leitrim, Tipperary and Derry.
