Northern Irishman Jim Magilton on Sunday quit as interim head coach of Australian A-League club Melbourne Victory after failing to give the struggling former champions a boost. Magilton joined Victory in January, but the two-time champions did not make it into this season's playoffs, finishing eighth in the 10-team league.
Magilton's record with Victory was two wins, five draws and five losses. Club officials said Magilton was advised at the end of the regular season that he would be on a short-list of coaches vying for the permanent position at Victory.
But Magilton on Sunday advised the club that he did not want the job, and would return to Northern Ireland.
"I'd like to thank everyone at Melbourne Victory for the opportunity that was presented to me," Magilton said in a statement.
"We have thoroughly enjoyed the experience and wish the club every success in the future." Officials said the club had a short-list of candidates for the head coach position and the process for appointment was under way.