It has been confirmed that Damian Cassidy will not be seeking an additional term in charge of the Derry footballers.
The former Oak Leaf player, an All-Ireland winner in 1993, completed two years at the helm when Kildare dumped his side out of the qualifiers last month. The manner of that resounding defeat is thought to have convinced Cassidy not to pursue the final year of his three-year term.
"Damian and his management team have served this county with pride over the past two years, highlighted by leading our County to a National final in Croke Park in 2009," said a statement released on Friday by the Derry county board.
"Derry County Board would like to commend Damian and his management team for the new initiatives they have introduced to the county set up and credit them for the new players they have introduced to the panel.
"Whilst we regret to be in this situation, we accept the decision of Damian and his management team, and wish them well in their future endeavours, and have no doubt they will go on to enjoy continued success in their future managerial careers."
Cassidy's departure adds to the growing list of Ulster counties who will change managers this year - Cavan, Fermanagh, Donegal, and Derry - with question marks hanging over the stewardships in Antrim and Monaghan.