Graham Kelly announced as caretaker manager of Bray Wanderers

Bray Wanderers have announced that long-serving coach Graham Kelly will step in as caretaker manager until a permanent replacement for Dave Mackey is found.

Mackey resigned on Sunday following a 5-0 defeat to St Patrick's Athletic, the club's eighth consecutive losses from nine league games this season.

A club statement read: “Bray Wanderers have appointed Graham Kelly as caretaker manager for the foreseeable future. Graham has been a member of the coaching staff since 2016.

“We would like to thank Graham for taking on this difficult task at short notice.”

Kelly's stint in charge is expected to be a short one as former UCD and Limerick boss Martin Russell is reportedly being lined up to take the position permanently.

The 58-year-old was revealed as Seagulls boss in December following the departure of Harry Kenny at the end of last season.

Bray were plagued by off-field problems last year as former chairman Denis O'Connor questioned their ability to continue in the manner they were.

The PFAI became involved when players became concerned their wages wouldn't be paid, while chairman Gerry Mulvey issued a statement comparing Wicklow County Council to North Korea.

Gardaí and the FAI also launched an investigation into suspected match-fixing arising from a 5-0 friendly defeat to Waterford, but concluded after they found no evidence of wrongdoing.