Andy Moran has stepped down as Leitrim senior football manager after three years in charge.

The former Footballer of the Year's decision comes as a surprise as he was expected to continue in the role for another year at least. A high-profile appointment in 2021, Moran led Leitrim to promotion to Division 3 of the Allianz League earlier this year and also achieved some noteworthy results as manager of the county's U20 team.

In a statement released last night, the former Mayo star said: “It’s with a heavy heart that I leave the role but feel it’s the right thing to do at this time. After the team gained promotion to Allianz League Division 3 in 2024, I feel now the Leitrim Senior Footballers are moving to a new phase of their development. What is required in my opinion is someone to commit fully for another three years. My three years with Leitrim have been a complete joy.

"I would like to thank our sponsors during my years in charge. Seamus and Caitriona Clarke of JP Clarke’s New York, and more recently Pat Gallagher of the Gallagher Group. Small counties would struggle to compete at any level without the support of sponsors. Our Donors & Supporters who generously backed our plans and made sure they backed the County Board and helped out in whatever the team needed.

"A sincere thank you to the Leitrim GAA Chairman Enda Stenson, Secretary Declan Bohan & PRO Barbara Loughlin Byrne. I would particularly like to thank Treasurer Martin McCartin & Brian Blake, County Administrator, for their guidance and support over the three seasons. The job would not be possible without their support.

"I would like to thank my Management Team and all the backroom team that have been involved in the past three seasons. Mickey Graham, Luke Bree, and in previous years Mike Solan & James Glancy. I would particularly like to thank Barry McWeeney who is Leitrim through and through and is the glue that held everything together.

"Finally, to the players. Every player that has played under us has given everything to the cause. Led by Donal Wrynn & Mark Diffley Leitrim people are blessed to have an amazing bunch of ambassadors to represent the county. So many obstacles such as population, location, and many other factors are placed in the way of Leitrim football.

"Yet they keep producing talented young footballers. My hope is that they keep driving on. The future is bright. To everyone involved in Leitrim Football – Thank you.”

Leitrim GAA will begin the process of finding a new manager in the coming days.

Leitrim GAA Announcement – Andy Moran steps down as Leitrim Senior Football Team Manager - https://t.co/SW4cAUrLps

Leitrim GAA Management Committee has been regretfully infor...

— Leitrim GAA (@LeitrimGAA) July 4, 2024

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