Brendan Rea has stepped down as Kilkenny City manager, citing work and family commitments.

But club officials have moved quickly to unearth a successor and could announce Rea's replacement before Sunday's game away to Athlone Town.

Kilkenny, currently bottom of the First Division, thanked Rea for his commitment and wished him well in the future.

"Brendan is one of the gentlemen of the game and we wish him every success and happiness," club director Caroline Rhatigan said.

Rea, an imposing central defender at the club during the 90s, succeeded Adrian Fitzpatrick at the start of the season on a two-year deal.

Club director Jim Rhatigan had hoped the appointment would signal a new beginning for the club but, despite Rea's best efforts, results this season have not gone Kilkenny's way.

Kilkenny have won just two of their 18 league games and have been eliminated from the League Cup. However, an FAI Cup third round clash with Cork City next month does lie in store.

Rea was caretaker manager at Waterford United two years ago, working in tandem with advisor Pat Dolan as the team successfully battled relegation.