Russell departs as Athlone Town appoint interim manager

Athlone Town are looking for a new first team manager yet again after parting company with Martin Russell.

The club confirmed in a statement last night (Sunday) that Russell has departed the role of manager.

Athlone lost 2-0 to midland rivals Longford Town last Saturday night which means they have failed to register a single win from the first series of fixtures in the First Division of the SSE Airtricity League.

The Town lie bottom of the table with one point from eight games, with a 1-1 draw against Bray Wanderers yielding their sole point.

"Following discussions between Martin and Athlone Town AFC's board members, it was mutually agreed that he should stand down from the position with immediate effect," said a statement from the club.

"Unfortunately results this season were not what Martin and the club had hoped for. The club would like to thank Martin for his efforts and wishes him every success in the future. The club will start the process of recruiting a new manager.

"In the meantime, Athlone Town AFC's Director of Football Dermot Lennon, who is both a former manager and player for ATAFC, will take charge of the men's first team affairs," the statement added.

Athlone's next game is at home to Treaty United this Friday night, April 15 (kick-off 7.45pm).