Glenavon on hunt for new manager as Stephen McDonnell departs with some fans hoping for return of former boss

Glenavon are on the hunt for a new manager following the departure of Stephen McDonnell on Saturday night.

The Lurgan Blues have called time of McDonnell's tenure at the club 14 months after his arrival at Mourneview Park.

The club made the decision to part ways with the former Warrenpoint Town boss following Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Dungannon Swifts which saw Glenavon slump to 11th in the table, four points off bottom club Loughgall.

READ NEXT: Ruairi McConville realises teenage dreams but he wants more after special Northern Ireland debut

READ NEXT: No surprises for Shea Charles as he looks to a big 2025 for Northern Ireland

Speaking after the game McDonnell slammed media speculation that his position was under threat but hours later he was gone after a run of six games without a win.

The big question now is who will take over the reins with fans voicing their opinion on social media. Former player Stuart King, who has been out of work since leaving Carrick Rangers, is one of the names being mentioned.

As is former Cliftonville boss Paddy McLaughlin, who spoke recently of his desire to get back in the game. Ruaidhri Higgins, who McLaughlin worked with at Derry City, is another name being talked about following his departure from the Brandywell.

One fan was even hoping David Jeffrey would dig out his boots again and take over the reins at the Lurgan Blues.

A name that popped up from a few fans however was that of former boss Gary Hamilton. The former Northern Ireland international parted ways with the club last September before McDonnell's arrival after nearly 12 years in charge.

Whether or not Hamilton would even contemplate a return to the club or not remains to be seen. Speaking on NIFL's Box To Box podcast recently he said he couldn't see himself coming back to the game any time soon.

Join Belfast Live’s new Irish League WhatsApp group. Click this link to receive the latest Irish League headlines and breaking news direct to your phone. We also treat our members to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our group, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice