Higgins family hits back with staunch defence of former Derry City manager

The brother of Ruaidhri Higgins has launched a staunch defence of the former Derry City manager after his departure from the club at the weekend.

On the same day that Higgins left the club after three-and-a-half years in charge, Michael Higgins took to social media to slam the criticism his brother has faced in recent months and to defend Ruaidhri’s record at the Brandywell.

His post read: “I have a range of emotions today as my brother steps down from the role of Derry City FC manager. I am incredibly proud of his achievements and the dignified manner in which he has always carried himself.

“The last few months have been particularly difficult for him and our family with the abuse that has been directed at him from some “supporters”. Ruaidhri put his heart and soul into the job and he has taken the club from potential relegation candidates to the top table of Irish football.

“While results and trophies are important, legacy is also vital in building the foundations for future generations. “Everywhere you go in the town now you see weans in Derry City shirts, crowds at the Brandywell have been at an all-time high and a new stand is being built to accommodate the growing numbers attending games. Whilst the cup final didn’t work out as hoped Derry still took 20,000 fans down. Surely this all bodes well for the future of the club?

“Ruaidhri has dealt with a lot of adversity during his tenure, in particular the sudden death of our beautiful big brother Kevin in February of last year. No one outside of our family will ever know the devastating impact this had on us.

“But I feel that it has been particularly difficult for Ruaidhri who has been in the public eye and subject to such scrutiny from all of the football experts on here.

“Can you imagine having to bury your brother one day and literally be on the sideline the next? I know this is the career that Ruaidhri chose but in what other line of work are you subject to such public vitriol?

“What makes some boys think it is ok to hurl abuse at an individual? Perhaps football is their outlet for the misery and unhappiness in their own lives??

“Ruaidhri is an incredibly resilient man and has experienced many setbacks in his career. I know he doesn’t read the nonsense but it is impossible to ignore for some of the rest of us.

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“Even when you try to avoid it you will inadvertently come across some enlightened comment somewhere from boys that would know more about a bag a cans.

“I’m just glad Ruaidhri is so resilient and by God his time with Derry has tested this to the hilt. But he is a human being after all with emotions and feelings and two beautiful young daughters who are so proud that their daddy managed Derry City Football Club.

“Both of my parents who lost their eldest son and are now well into their 70’s stopped going to the Brandywell some time ago because they found it very difficult to listen to their son getting abused.

“Anyway, the journey has now ended and it is now time for someone else to step into the role.

“Please cut them some slack and have some patience. Take time to consider the potential impact of your words. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.

“I just want to express my sincere gratitude to Derry City Football Club and in particular Philip O’Doherty for giving Ruaidhri the opportunity to manage an amazing football club and for his support at the time of Kevin’s death. Wishing the club all the very best for next season.”