McDonnell leaves Glenavon after poor start to season

Stephen McDonnell Inpho

The former Warrenpoint manager took over from Gary Hamilton at Glenavon in September 2023

Glenavon have parted company with manager Stephen McDonnell after their 2-0 defeat to Dungannon Swifts in the Irish Premiership on Saturday.

The Lurgan Blues have only won three league games this season and were beaten by Championship side Armagh City in the BetMcLean Cup earlier this month.

They are currently 11th in the Irish Premiership table, only four points from bottom place.

"Glenavon FC have tonight parted company with manager Stephen McDonnell," the club stated.

"The club wishes to place on record its thanks to Stephen for his efforts."

McDonnell, who previously managed Warrenpoint, was appointed in September 2023, replacing Gary Hamilton who had been in the post for 12 years.

In his first season in charge, he led the club to safety as they finished in 10th place.

But after a run of seven games without a win in all competitions, his time at Mourneview Park has come to an end.