Rory Gallagher has announced that he is 'stepping back' from his role as manager of the Derry senior footballers.
In a statement released on Mr Gallagher's behalf, the now former manager cites 'a desire to protect my children from the ongoing turmoil' as the reason for his departure.
“I have advised Derry GAA that I am stepping back as Derry senior football manager with immediate effect,” Mr Gallagher said in a statement.
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“This decision is borne out of a desire to protect my children from the ongoing turmoil.
“They will always be my priority.”
The turmoil in question relates to a Facebook post published by Mr Gallagher's former wife Nicola Gallagher, who earlier this week made a number of domestic abuse allegations against Mr Gallagher.
In response to Ms Gallagher's allegations, Mr Gallagher released a statement through his solicitors claiming all allegations had been investigated and dealt with by the proper authorities.
“I have been made aware of a social media post by my estranged wife Nicola Gallagher in which she has made a number of very serious allegations against me,” the statement said.
"Our marriage broke down over 4 years ago. Those closest to our family are well aware of the reasons for the breakdown of our marriage and the continued issues we have faced since that time.... Allegations against me have been investigated and dealt with by the relevant authorities.
“My focus over the past 4 years has been to protect our children from the ongoing turmoil in our family."
“I have left this matter in the hands of my legal team and ask that the privacy of our family is respected at this time. I will not be making any further public comment on this matter.”
Gallagher's departure comes just two days before Derry take on Armagh in the final of the Ulster Senior Football Championship.
Derry GAA have confirmed that Ciaran Meenagh will take charge of the side for Sunday's final.
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