Mark Robins, the third longest-serving manager in English football, has been sacked by Coventry City after almost eight years in charge.
The Sky Blues have pulled the plug on the 54-year-old after Wednesday night’s 2-1 home defeat by Derby County, which left them 17th in the Championship table.
Robins joined the club in 2017 and took them from League Two to the Championship – and one game away from the Premier League in 2023 where they were beaten 1-0 by Luton in the second-tier play-off final.
He also led the club to the FA Cup semi-finals last season, where they were narrowly beaten on penalties by Manchester United.
But after Wednesday night’s 2-1 home defeat to Midlands rivals Derby they announced on Thursday morning that Robins had been sacked.
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Watch highlights from Robins’ last game in charge of Coventry
“Mark masterminded and built several teams over that time that outperformed their budget, outperformed their infrastructure and brought back a playing style, credibility and belief to our city that had been lost and eroded over many years,” a statement read.
“These achievements will never be forgotten by those who witnessed such deeds and the broader community that once again began to rekindle their affection for our club.
“There is no doubt that Coventry City today would not be where it is today without the inspired actions of Mark and his team.
“The club is well aware that this is a difficult moment after over seven very successful years at the helm and this decision is not taken lightly.
“The performance of the team over an extended period however has just not been good enough and as such the board of the club has decided to make an immediate change in leadership.”