Derry City Women manager Kevin McLaughlin has resigned from his position on the eve of the Danske Bank Women’s Premiership commencing.

Josh Boyle, the club’s women’s Under-19 manager and first team coach, will step into the role as caretaker manager at the club.

The club’s assistant coach Gareth Moore remains with the team while the Head of Women’s Academy, Mark Terry has also joined the staff as a first team coach.

McLaughlin helped established the Candystripes as a Danske Bank Women’s Premiership mainstay with a marked improvement in results last season, including home wins over Sion Swifts and Crusaders.

Derry City’s women’s committee said in a statement: "We thank Kevin for his dedication and hard work over the past 4-5 years. His determination to change the culture and perception of women's football in City never wavered.

“We wish Kevin all the very best going forward.”

The Candystripes begin their 2022 campaign away to Crusaders on Wednesday night.