A call from the Donegal senior squad expressing concern about the direction of the team prompted Paddy Carr’s resignation, Donegal Daily understands.
A senior GAA source has confirmed details of the developments which led to Carr resigning from his position after just five months in his post.
Fans have been left reeling after Carr quit his post ahead of this Sunday’s final National League game against Roscommon at Dr Hyde Park.
Donegal are all but relegated to Division Two even ahead of that game and will depend on the results from other games as well as points difference to have any chance of staying up.
Carr was given a two year deal with an agreement to review the deal after the first year with most fans thinking he would serve out the championship at least.
However, yesterday’s bombshell resignation accompanied by a short statement from Carr left fans with more questions than answers.
The Donegal County Board said this morning they would be making no further comment on the matter “at this time.”
Donegal Daily understands that three players from the senior panel contacted a county board member expressing concern about the direction the team was taking under Carr.
Subsequently, a meeting between three players and manager Paddy Car was arranged in Monaghan on Tuesday.
Carr is understood to have considered his position after this meeting and took the decision to resign yesterday afternoon as a result of the players’ stance.
In a brief statement Carr said he had taken his decision following a “discussion with some senior members” of the Donegal squad.
“I want to announce that I’m stepping away from the position of Donegal team manager with immediate effect,” Carr added. “I want nothing more than the best for Donegal and that will never change.”
The Donegal County Board will meet tonight with clubs from across the county to discuss the future of the Donegal Academy.
It is not known if the vacant manager’s position or Carr’s resignation will be discussed.
Meanwhile, coaches Aidan O’Rourke and Paddy Bradley will take charge of the team for Sunday’s clash with Roscommon.
