Brechin City FC as today regretfully agreed to release Michael O'Neill from his contract to take up a full time position as Manager of Eircom League Premier Division Club, Shamrock Rovers FC.

Chairman Ken Ferguson said ' The Club recognise the excellent job Michael has done during his 2 1/2 years as Manager. He has improved the squad greatly and allowed the players to express themselves with a flowing and attacking style of play. Michael leaves the Club with an impressive record on the pitch and with a glowing report card off it. His personaility and business acumen were as asset to the Club. Unfortunately Michael's personal circumstances have recently changed significantly, resulting in this move. He will be sorely missed especially at such a crucial stage of the season. Michael leaves the Club with our best wishes and we wish him and his family well with their move to Ireland.

The Club will now take stock, we plan to move quickly to find a replacement. We have an excellent squad of players and I am sure there are a number of managers out there who will want to pick up from where Michael left off. The Club invite applications from interested parties.'

Michael O'Neill stated 'As you are now all probably aware I have agreed to take the Shamrock Rovers Manager’s job in the Eircom league .The events of the last few days have been very difficult as I have had a fantastic 2 ½ years at Brechin City, and I will be forever grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity to manage the club. I believe the club is now in great position to progress with an excellent squad of players’. The decision to relocate to Ireland is based both on personal and professional reasons and I feel it is in the best interests of my family to take this opportunity now.

Brechin City FC is a special club and I would like to wish the players, backroom staff, the committee and the supporters all the best for the future.'