Brighton coach and former Ireland Under-21 man makes US switch for first head coach role

Former League of Ireland midfielder Gary Dicker has left his role as assistant manager for Brighton’s Under-21s to take up his first head-coach role.

US side Crown Legacy FC - the pathway club to MLS side Charlotte FC - have appointed the Dubliner to lead their team in next year’s MLS Next Pro League.

Dicker, a former UCD and Brighton midfielder, who played over 150 times for the Seagulls, began his coaching career at Brighton in 2021. A year later he was appointed Under-21 assistant manager.

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He said: “I am excited and grateful to become the next head coach of Crown Legacy FC..

“I believe my coaching experience will be beneficial to developing and attracting the next generation of footballers for Charlotte FC.

“The Club’s philosophy and dedication to bringing through the next generation of talent made this an opportunity I could not pass up.”

Dicker played a role in the development of Irish players such as Evan Ferguson, Andy Moran and Mark O’Mahony during his time at Brighton.

He added: “I’ve had a brilliant three years since I’ve come back to (Brighton). I’ve had amazing support from the academy and the club as I’ve transitioned from a player to a coach.

“I want to say a big thank you to Tony Bloom and Paul Barber for bringing me back to the club, and also to David Weir and Ian Buckman for all their support.

“I have had the opportunity to work with some great people, in particular Shannon Ruth and before that Andrew Crofts.

“This chance to go to America though is a really exciting one for me and my family, but it wouldn’t have come about without the Albion and the coaching education that they’ve given me.”

His arrival at Crown Legacy was welcomed by club officials, with President Darrius Barnes saying: “He has the experience and knowledge to not only develop and progress our young talent within Crown Legacy FC but also create a winning environment that aspires for excellence.”

Technical Director Tommy Wilson added: “Gary is a young manager who fits perfectly into what we are building at Crown Legacy FC.

“Hiring Gary from a top English Premier League club is a testament to the strength of our organisation, and a statement of intent which shows we are focused on player development. His track record at Brighton makes him the ideal candidate to lead us forward, and we are excited to bring him onboard.”

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