Phil Sumbler
The Athletic (Stuart James) is reporting that the Swans have sacked manager Michael Duff after less than six months in charge of the club.
Duff leaves with the Swans 18th in the Championship
The club statement read
Assistant head coach Martin Paterson has also left the club with immediate effect, with fellow assistant head coach Alan Sheehan assuming the role of caretaker head coach for an interim period.
The process to appoint a new head coach is already under way and the club will update supporters in due course.
Swansea City chairman Andy Coleman said: “This was a very difficult decision and one that was given considerable thought and attention.
“I acknowledge that there has been a significant amount of change at the club, both on and off the pitch, during Michael’s tenure. I consistently asked for patience as we gave him time to implement his plans and bring the squad together.
“Unfortunately, we have seen neither the results that we expect nor the progress from the squad that we need. I believe it is now in the best interests of Swansea City to make a change of head coach.
“I have the greatest respect for Michael as a person and as a leader. I know how hard he and his staff have worked throughout this season for Swansea City. I want to personally thank Michael, Martin, and their families for the sacrifices they have made on behalf of this club and this city.
“I know that Michael will be successful in his next opportunity and on behalf of the Board and the entire club, I wish him and Martin only the best in their future endeavours.
“I understand how important it is to reconnect the leadership of Swansea City Football Club with its supporters. That is one of the primary reasons why I moved here with my family this summer.
“Being present in Swansea matters, but so does taking responsibility. I will learn from the experience of these last several months. My appreciation for how critical the Swansea identity is to this club has grown since the summer and it will be high in my mind as I make the decision on our new head coach.”
I had the misfortune of sitting in the stand on Saturday, the first time in over a year. I have been a season ticket holder since the dark days at the vetch, so have seen some really poor games over the years. But Saturday’s performance was one of the worst I have seen. Sadly, Duff has offered us very little and possibly made us a lot worse. Thank goodness he has gone. I am at a loss because I have seen firsthand his Cheltenham side and Barnsley team (on TV) and they were well-structured attacking sides – with us, he has lost the plot. Time was up some time ago I think – let us hope Nathan Jones is kept at arm’s length – let’s put a call into Huw Jenkins and ask him what the secret is in appointing up-and-coming managers – he is the master! – up the jacks!
Cameron Toshack with Joe Allen and Angel Rangel as assistants anyone?