Scunthorpe United announce exit of manager Jimmy Dean

Departure follows defeat in the National League North play-offs

Author: Gavin RutterPublished 2nd May 2024
Last updated 2nd May 2024

Scunthorpe United have announced the departure of its management team after missing out on promotion.

Jimmy Dean, Chris Plummer and Ant Coombe will exit the club following a disappointing end to their National League North campaign which saw the Iron lose to Lincolnshire rivals Boston United in the play-offs.

In a statement, the club said a 'reset was required' as it looks towards 'sustainability' and a reduction in expenditure 'in line with...what the football club can afford'.

Owner and chairperson Michelle Harness told the club's website: “To be saying goodbye to Jimmy, Chris and Ant is undoubtedly one of our toughest decisions since we took ownership of the club, and it is a decision we’ve made with a very heavy heart.

“We inherited significant debt, along with a budget and payroll which by far exceeds the level that we are currently operating at, and we need to work hard this summer to bring that back to a level where we can both compete at, but also remain sustainable, and this must start at football management level, and then focusing on the playing staff.

“We remain wholly committed to recruiting and retaining players for the 2024-25 season who fall within our budget, and will give us the best possible chance to see us competing at the top of the league again.

“Jimmy, Chris and Ant have conducted themselves brilliantly throughout our time at the club, and will always be welcome at the Attis Arena should they wish to visit us. I would like to personally thank each of them for their hard work and endeavours while they represented our Board, the badge, and most importantly, you as the fans of Scunthorpe United.”

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