More twists and turns in Athlone Town manager saga
By Kieran Galvin
There were fresh twists and turns in the Athlone Town FC managerial saga last night and again today (Wednesday).
Roddy Collins – who guided Athlone to promotion from the Airtricity League First Division last season – was a guest on Newstalk's 'Off The Ball' programme last night.
In response to a request from a listener, presenter Joe Molloy read out a tweet from Athlone Town's official Twitter feed.
The tweet suggested that a new manager of the club would be revealed the following day.
When this was put to Roddy Collins, he said he knew nothing about it. And although disappointed, he seemed philosophical in accepting that he would not be Athlone Town's manager next season.
Collins said that club officials had not met him to have a detailed discussion about him remaining in charge and, in such a scenario, his plans for next season's Premier Division campaign.
Although Collins said he had been contacted by two clubs in relation to managerial positions, he said he had not applied for any other jobs. The Dubliner has been linked with the managerial vacancy at Derry City.
However, a subsequent tweet emerged from Athlone Town which poured cold water on the previous message.
“Account was compromised earlier tonight and we now have full control again. Panic over move along folks,' said the tweet.
In addition, a statement has been posted on the Athlone Town FC website today (Wednesday) saying the club hopes to name a new management team by next Monday.
“It is expected that the club will have a management team announcement released on Monday November 18. This will follow a review by a three man committee this Friday of interested parties,' said the statement.
In an article in this week's Westmeath Independent, Athlone Town FC chairman John Hayden declined to comment on the manager’s position, and would not be drawn on whether the club intended to meet with Collins before conducting a planned 'consultation process’ this Friday.
Given the success achieved by Collins this season, the vast majority of Athlone Town fans would prefer him to remain in charge - but this appears to look increasingly unlikely.