Stephen O'Donnell has announced he intends to resign as St Patrick's Athletic head coach just five days after guiding them to FAI Cup glory .
The Galwayman issued a statement through his management, Integrity Sports, thanking the club for their support over the past two and a half years.
O'Donnell is expected to be offered a coaching position at Dundalk, where he spent six years as a player, in due course but questions remain around what, if any, compensation is due.
The Athletic have already moved to appoint Tim Clancy as manager as the Meathman brought to an end a four-year stint in charge of Drogheda United.
While Clancy was announced as an 'addition to the management team' yesterday, it is expected the former Shamrock Rovers and Bray Wanderers man will take full charge.
In a veiled reference to Dundalk, the Saints statement thanked Drogheda 'for their professionalism in this process and permitting us to speak with their manager with a view to him joining St Patrick’s Athletic.'
Pats have yet to formally announce O'Donnell's departure and that may persist for some time until any red tape between the two clubs is ironed out.
"Today, I informed St Patrick's Athletic of my decision to resign as Head Coach," read a statement posted on Integrity Sports' instagram.
"I understand the club and supporters will be disappointed at my decision. However, I hope that, despite their disappointment, they can recognise that I have given everything during my time in charge.
"I certainly feel that I could not have worked any harder and I am so proud of the exciting team we have built over the past two years.
"I would like to thank all the coaching staff, the players and the club's supporters, all of whom have been incredible during my time at the club.
"I would also like to thank Garrett Kelleher for giving me my first opportunity in coaching and I hope he feels I have delivered upon the faith he has shown in me.
"Sunday's FAI Cup success was one of the proudest moments of my life and an achievement I will cherish forever. I believe the club has made terrific progress and is in a great place."
