By Adedapo Adesanya
English Premier League relegation-threatened side, Burnley Football Club, have announced the sack of manager, Mr Sean Dyche, after almost a decade at the helm of affairs.
His exit was announced by the club on Friday. He was shown the way out of Turf Moor alongside assistant manager Ian Woan, first-team coach Steve Stone and goalkeeping coach Billy Merce.
His departure means he is the longest-serving manager in the Premier League, having been in charge of the Clarets for nine-and-a-half years, overseeing a period that will go down as one of the most successful in the club’s history.
During this time, the team was promoted twice from the Championship, achieved two top-half Premier League finishes and qualified for Europe for the first time in 51 years.
Commenting on this development, the club’s Chairman, Mr Alan Pace said, “Firstly, we would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Sean and his staff for their achievements at the Club over the last decade.”
“During his time at Turf Moor, Sean has been a credit both on and off the pitch, respected by players, staff, supporters, and the wider football community.
“However, results this season have been disappointing and, while this was an incredibly difficult decision, with eight crucial games of the campaign remaining, we feel a change is needed to give the squad the best possible chance of retaining its Premier League status.
“Under-23s coach Mike Jackson, assisted by Academy Director Paul Jenkins, Under-23s goalkeeping coach Connor King and Club Captain Ben Mee have been asked to take charge of the team for Sunday’s game with West Ham United.
“The process of replacing Sean has begun and further announcements will be made to supporters in due course,” he said.
Mr Dyche’s departure comes as the club is battling relegation as it sits at the 18th position on the table with 24 points after winning just six games and losing 21 games and settling for four draws.
This is not particularly settling for owners ALK Capital, who will be expecting a better result after taking over the club more than a year ago following the acquisition of a controlling 84 per cent stake in the Premier League club.
Dipo Olowookere