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13th Feb 2025

Rory Gallagher reportedly close to taking coaching role with one of the country’s top clubs

SportsJOE

A big move on the cards for Gallagher

Former Derry manager Rory Gallagher has been lined up for a coaching role with Down champions Kilcoo.

The Examiner revealed that club sources have said that Gallagher is close to joining the senior set-up after the departure of Karl Lacey.

The Donegal legend left his role as manager last month after two years at the helm.

Gallagher stepped down as Derry boss in 2023, just before their Ulster final win over Armagh, following allegations of abuse from his wife Nicola. He was never charged and has denied the claims.

He was involved in further controversy last month when Kildare champions Naas did a U-turn on their decision to hire him to their coaching staff.

It was revealed that GAA president Jarlath Burns had sent an email to the club, urging them to reconsider the appointment.

Gallagher subsequently threatened legal action and in a statement said: “With great power comes great responsibility. Mr Burns’ actions are premised on a misguided and self-serving compulsion to share his concern.

“Regrettably, whilst this is the first time Mr Burns’ actions have been made public, this is not the first time that I have been informed that he has taken matters into his own hands with respect to me and my family life.

“Such action is not only without precedent, it seeks to enter into an authoritarian world where due process and procedure count for nothing.

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