Cork City have appointed Gavin Gallagher as a coach and selector for the 2027 season as manager John Cleary reshapes his backroom staff. The club also confirmed the arrivals of goalkeeping coach Terry O’Brien and strength and conditioning specialist Dylan Byrne for the upcoming campaign. This restructuring takes place as the team enjoys a commanding 19-point lead at the top of the First Division.
John Cleary said the Donegal native is joining in a coaching role. "CORK BOSS JOHN Cleary has revamped his backroom team for the 2027 season with Donegal native Gavin Gallagher joining in a coaching role," the manager stated.
Gallagher's appointment pending committee ratification
Gallagher’s appointment requires formal ratification at the November Cork County Committee meeting. The coach, who has been involved with the Castlehaven senior football side, helped them win Cork senior titles in 2023 and 2024. He fills a vacancy created by the departure of Kevin Murray after the 2026 season.
Backroom changes replace departed staff
The new appointments replace Kevin Murray, Paddy O’Shea and Cian Sisk, who all moved on following the conclusion of the 2026 campaign. The club secured promotion last spring and will begin next year in Division 1. The backroom team will begin work in earnest after the November meeting, preparing for the upcoming campaign. They inherit a squad that has scored 74 goals this season while conceding only 35.
The changes come as Cork City sit first in the First Division with 75 points from 36 games, a record of 23 wins, six draws and seven losses. The team's recent run also featured a 5-1 victory over UCD on 18 September but defeats to Athlone Town, Longford Town and Cobh Ramblers. The full fixtures list for the new season will be key as the new coaching team prepares. The club's large squad, which fans can view on the squad page, will be the focus of this new backroom group's work ahead of the 2027 kick-off.
The original report is at The 42
