Stuart King pens emotional farewell to Carrick Rangers following departure

Stuart King has penned an emotional farewell to Carrick Rangers following his departure from the club. King stepped down by mutual consent following Tuesday's 1-0 defeat to Queen's University in the BetMcLean Cup.

It was Carrick's ninth defeat in 10 games across all competitions, with the Taylors Avenue men rooted to the bottom of the Irish Premiership.

It has been a difficult season for King whose side finished seventh last term and reached the European play-offs for the first time in their history.

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In a statement, King said: "Obviously, my time at Carrick Rangers has come to an end. I would like to thank the Board for the opportunity to manage in the Premier League. Not many clubs would have taken a chance on a PIL manager so early in his management journey.

"When I took over, I told you that no one would work as hard and that I would progress the Club. I was demanding but I feel I have left the Club in a much better place with your help. The Club is special because of the people who work behind the scenes, the volunteers who don’t get noticed, if it’s the Club Chaplain, Stewards, the Men and Women that look after the Shop, Cleaners, Academy Staff, Admin and Media Team, I would like to thank you all for the help and support you have given me and the staff. Your time is vital to the Club and I really appreciated it.

"To the players, what a journey it’s been. Ups and downs but what we achieved together cannot be changed. Year on year breaking Club records and securing a European play-off spot. I was proud to lead you. To my staff, thank you. You don’t get the recognition you deserve. Everything I asked wasn’t a problem and hopefully we can work together again soon. You all had my back when I needed it.

"To the fans, all I wanted to do is make you proud to support Carrick. From the new young supporters to the old gentlemen in the Supporters’ Club, thank you. Your support is vital for the Club, the Players and whoever is lucky to get the manager’s job. They will need your support.

"And lastly, to my family. B, Lucy and Charlie, we are the best team. Now, we can have some quality time together, recharge and go again when the next opportunity arises. I’m sure you will be glad to hear that!"

Meanwhile, Carrick have also reacted to King's departure. In a separate statement, the club said: "Carrick Rangers would like to place on record its sincere thanks and best wishes to Stuart King following his departure from the Club yesterday evening.

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From his appointment in June 2021 King progressed the Club on the pitch, improving the team’s league position year-on-year culminating in a 7th placed finish in the Sports Direct Premiership last season and qualification to the European Play-Offs."

Carrick Chairman Peter Clarke added: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Stuart for his hard work, commitment and dedication throughout the last three years. As his time as our manager comes to an end, we reflect fondly on the many successes he achieved during his time with us and are thankful for the progress made on the pitch under his direction.

"While making the mutual decision to part ways was not easy, it was agreed that it was ultimately in the best interests of both parties. Naturally, all of us at Carrick Rangers wish Stuart and his family well and look forward to welcoming them back to Taylors Avenue in the future.”

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