Sligo Rovers have confirmed that manager John Coleman and assistant Jimmy Bell have departed the club after just 88 days in charge to return to the Football League in England with former side Accrington Stanley.
The club were approached by League Two side Accrington in recent days over their vacant managerial position and, given Coleman and Bell's previous relationship with Accrington (they led the club from 1999-2012), Sligo allowed talks to take place.
A compensation package for the move has been agreed.
Coleman joined the Bit o’ Red at a critical juncture for the club. He delivered a vital European success, just the second in the club’s history, with the 4-0 aggregate win over FK Banga in the Europa League.
It was followed by the club’s first ever away win in Europe in beating Rosenborg 2-1 in Norway, one of the most memorable victories in Rovers’ history.
Head of Youth Development Gavin Dykes has been placed in temporary charge of first-team affairs.
The club will immediately begin the search for a new manager.
A club statement said: "The opportunity arose for John to return home, to his former club, and it is with a heavy heart that he has made the decision to take this opportunity and leave Sligo.
"The club would like to thank John and Jimmy for all their hard work during their time in The Showgrounds and wish them all the best for the future."
Coleman said: “I am disappointed to leave Sligo Rovers because it’s a smashing club. Sligo is a lovely part of the world with great people.
“Opportunities to manage in the Football League do not come along too often. I know that as I’ve been out of work before. So when the chance comes you have to grab it. It’s not a decision that myself and Jimmy have made lightly.
“Returning home to my former club was just too hard to turn down as well. I have a lot of history with Accrington Stanley and had a lot of good times and friendships there.
“Managing Sligo Rovers was a brilliant experience. In particular, the European games, I will look back on these days and cherish them. It’s not too often you get the chance to compete in Europe and it was a great honour.
“I wish we could have competed better in the league and secured a European place but unfortunately with injuries and the small squad that was difficult.
“I would like to thank everyone at the club for the opportunity especially the management committee and the fans.
"I made difficult decisions during my short time here but tried at all times to look at what was best for the long term future of the club and I hope the club continue to challenge and be successful. I will certainly be looking out for the Sligo Rovers results."
