Waterford manager Alan Reynolds emerges as top target to replace Buckley at St Pat's

31 August 2018; Waterford manager Alan Reynolds prior to the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division match between St Patrick's Athletic and Waterford at Richmond Park in Dublin. Photo by Harry Murphy/Sportsfile

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September 26 2018 05:05 PM

Waterford manager Alan Reynolds has emerged as the top target to replace Liam Buckley as St Patrick's Athletic boss, Independent.ie understands.

Buckley and the Saints parted ways yesterday after six years together, with the former St Pat's player the club's longest-serving manager. Thoughts now turn to who might replace Buckley, with Blues boss Reynolds in pole position.

Reynolds secured promotion to the Airtricity Premier Division at the first time of asking last season, and has guided the team to fourth in the table as the current campaign draws to a close. Waterford and Shamrock Rovers are currently competing for the last European place.

It would be the 44-year-old's second job in management. Yesterday, St Pat's paid tribute to Buckley after seven seasons in charge.

"St Patrick's Athletic would like to announce that Liam Buckley has resigned from his position as first team manager by mutual consent," the club said in a statement.

"Club chairman Garrett Kelleher would like to thank Liam for his numerous successes during his time here over the past number of years and in particular for bringing his brand of free flowing and passing football to St Pat's, which has brought much entertainment and enjoyment to those who witnessed it.

"On his part, Liam would like to thank all involved with St Pat's for the support given to him during his seven year reign and wishes the club the best of luck in the future."