FOREST GREEN have sacked manager Ian Burchnall.
The Vegans are bottom of League One after picking up just five wins in 28 games.
The club have found it difficult to adjust to the third tier for the first time in their history following promotion from League Two last season.
Manchester United youngster Charlie Savage was targeted as someone who could help transform their fortunes – but Burchnall’s sacking could plunge that move into doubt.
Club chairman Dale Vince released a statement on Burchnall saying: “I’m grateful to Ian for all his hard work this season, it’s definitely not been easy.
“Our first season in League One was always going to be a challenge in itself but it’s been made more difficult by a number of factors, with their roots in last summer.
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“I believe in Ian as a coach, but circumstances have led us to this place, we’ve recruited strongly in the January window, player wise – now we need to recruit a new head coach – to give ourselves the best chance or staying in this league.”
Burchnall was also given the opportunity to share some parting words, and he thanked Vince for the opportunity as well as the players and staff he worked with.
He said: “I want to thank Dale for giving me the opportunity to manage in the Football League.
“The challenge was greater than I could have thought coming in. I have learnt a lot though. For the fans, I am sorry that I couldn’t make it work and that they didn’t see the best of my team.
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“I hope for them the team turns it around. They deserve a team in League One. My extended thanks to the players, staff and everyone at the club for their efforts – I wish you all the best for the future.”
Burchnall’s dismissal now raises some doubts over whether Forest Green will complete the signing of United youngster Savage.
The 19-year-old was in line to move to The New Lawn Stadium on loan for the rest of the season but the switch could be delayed until after a new manager is appointed.
Burchnall was axed following Forest Green’s defeat by 10-man Bolton, who had Dion Charles sent off in a case of mistaken identity.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
