Belfast born Warren Feeney leaves Welling United to jump at the chance of managing top-flight Glentoran in Northern Ireland

WELLING UNITED have confirmed that manager Warren Feeney has left Park View Road tonight after being offered a new challenge that he just couldn’t turn down in his native Northern Ireland.

The 42-year-old arrived at Park View Road in March 2022 and guided the club to survival in the National League South and finished last season in sixteenth-place with 58 points from their 46 games.

Top-flight Belfast based side Glentoran appointed Feeney as their new manager tonight.

“With a heavy heart, I have decided to step away from Welling.  I have been offered a challenge that I just couldn’t turn down,” said Feeney.

“My stats stand for themselves regarding the ups and downs of coming in at a difficult time to save the club.

“I, with a heavy heart, would like to thank my players, my staff and all the fans.

“Special mention to the board and Mark Goldberg, Jerry Dolke and my great friend Andy.  I want to give big mention to my friend for life and what an honest solider he was, in Jake Winchester, who stood side by side with me through it all and for every emotion.

“And to my boss in the club who fully believed in me and was more than a boss to me. 

“It was the most difficult decision I had to make when telling him about my decision. What a great man and I’m proud to call you a friend and more for life.”

A club statement added: “The club would like to thank Warren for all of his efforts during his time at Welling and wish him all the very best for the future.

“He will, however, act in an ambassadorial role for the club, offering his advice where necessary.

“The process to recruit a new first team manager at Welling United will begin immediately.”

Feeney, who’s son George is in Glentoran’s Academy, told Glentoran’s website: “I jumped at this offer from Glentoran.  I’m an East Belfast person who has a lot of Glenmen mates so I know what’s expected from one of the biggest clubs on the island.  The fans and board here expect to be the best and that’s what I want to achieve.”

Visit Welling United’s website: www.wellingunited.com