Derek McInnes departs Aberdeen
Just one win in nine games, and a single goal in that time means the end of an eight year spell at Pittodrie for McInnes.
Last updated 8th Mar 2021
Derek McInnes has left Aberdeen FC.
He leaves the club after eight years in charge, with his crowning achievement the League Cup win in 2014.
His Assistant Tony Docherty also leaves the club.
Over the remaining six league games an interim team, led by Paul Sheerin and supported by Barry Robson and Neil Simpson.
The team have one win in the last nine games, and have scored just one goal in that timeframe, with Saturday’s goalless draw at home to Hamilton Accies the last straw.
As recently as the 8th of February Chairman Dave Cormack had backed McInnes to turn things around, but another run of difficult results has proven a bridge too far for Cormack.
McInnes took over from Craig Brown shortly before the Summer of 2013.
AFC Chairman, Dave Cormack, said: “During his time in charge Derek raised the bar and delivered a level of consistency not seen at the Club for many years, qualifying for Europe each season, and delivering a memorable Scottish League Cup win at Celtic Park in season 2013/14 with 43,000 Dons fans in attendance.
“Clearly, results since the turn of the year have been disappointing and frustrating for everyone. Derek and I reviewed where we were and agreed that this was the right time for him to step down. The Club now has the opportunity to appoint a new manager ahead of the new season where, with a number of players out of contract, we have work to do to build a competitive squad.
“Derek and Tony leave with our thanks and gratitude for what they have achieved during their tenure. We wish them well for the future.”
Cormack added: “The Board will start the search for the new management team immediately and has a clear timetable in place. In the meantime, we believe we have a robust interim solution for the rest of the season and the Scottish Cup which is still all to play for!”
Commenting on the announcement, Derek McInnes said: “This season has been unprecedented due to a number of factors and I am as frustrated as anyone that results haven’t been of the high standard which we set.
“My motivation to deliver success has never wavered and during my eight-year tenure my staff and I have worked hard to elevate expectations and set a minimum standard which should be demanded at a Club like Aberdeen FC.
“I would like to thank all the players who have featured in my teams over the years, my current staff and players for their efforts and all the staff behind the scenes for their hard work and endeavour. To the supporters for their continuous backing and, of course, the Board for their support during my time at the Club.”
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