Inverness Caley Thistle have confirmed that assistant manager Russell Latapy has left the club.
Latapy has spent 18 months in the Highland capital as number two to John Hughes but will now move on in a big to kickstart his own management career.
Latapy has been absent from the dugout for recent pre-season victories against Highland League clubs Deveronvale and Forres Mechanics, with manager John Hughes last week revealing the former Trinidad and Tobago head coach is weighing up a return to management elsewhere.
Brian Rice, who assisted Hughes at his previous clubs at Falkirk and Hibernian, is the favourite to replace Latapy having watched Caley Jags’ last two matches from the stand.
After confirming his decision to leave, Latapy said: “My journey here has been fantastic and I have enjoyed every minute of my time in Inverness culminating in us finishing third in the SPFL and winning the William Hill Scottish Cup, a massive achievement for any club let all alone ICTFC.
“I have never hidden my ambition to one day be my own man in management terms and I believe now is the time.
“I would like to thank the supporters, players and all the staff for their support and co-operation during my time at the club including John for giving me the opportunity.
“I would also like to say I have enjoyed my time in the Highlands, it is a wonderful place to live and I have been made most welcome and have been extremely well treated by everyone at the club and the city of Inverness. I would like to wish the club and the team continued success in the future.”
Caley Thistle chairman Kenny Cameron added: “Whilst we are particularly sorry to see Russell depart for pastures new, we fully appreciate his desire to further develop his undoubted talents in a new environment and accordingly, all of us at ICTFC take this opportunity to thank him for everything he has brought to the club over the past 18 months.
“Specifically in terms of his knowledge, skills, commitment and great humour, all of which have greatly contributed to our recent successes.
“Russell will always be remembered here at ICTFC, as a member of a great winning team. We wish him every success going forward.
“I recognise that any form of organisational change brings with it, its own range of challenges.”