Limerick FC have begun the search for a new manager on the same day that pre-season training is due to start.
The club confirmed on Thursday that Neil McDonald has departed for Scunthorpe United.
He kept the club in the Premier Division last season and led them to a first FAI Cup semi-final appearance in 23 years.
McDonald has left the role to become Graham Alexander's assistant.
Chairman Pat O’Sullivan was unhappy with the manager's decision to depart and in particular the timing:
"The club and myself are naturally disappointed to be losing Neil at this time. However, when an opportunity like this is presented to your manager, where there is potential for him to be in the English Championship next season, Limerick FC is more than happy to fully back Neil and support him in taking up this position.
"It is also a compliment to Limerick FC that even though Neil has only been with us a short time, that his work has been rewarded with this very positive opportunity in his career. We thank Neil for his contribution to Limerick football in his time here.
"We also thank Neil for his help in the development of our young players, which brought about a rare opportunity for a League of Ireland club to have one of its players trialled at one of the top English Premier League clubs – that is a compliment to Neil’s managerial ability. In mentioning that, I must note the terrific work being done with our young players by our coaches throughout the club, in the first team and Academy structure.”
