‘I’m out of here’ – McCarthy decides to quit Ipswich job early

MICK McCARTHY ended his spell as Ipswich manager in abrupt fashion last night by leaving with immediate effect following a Championship win over his hometown club Barnsley.

It was confirmed last month that the former Irish boss (right) would be leaving at the end of the season when his contract expired.

But he announced his decision to bring the exit forward in the aftermath of another evening where sections of the home crowd voiced their displeasure with his work.

The catalyst was his decision to replace Irish debutant Barry Cotter early in the second half of the 1-0 victory. Fans were unhappy when Cotter – a January signing from Limerick – was withdrawn and booed the decision.

“That was a disgraceful reaction but listen I won’t have to listen to it again because that’s my last game, I’m out of here,” said McCarthy, when the flashpoint was raised in his post-match press conference. The 59-year-old duly brought proceedings to a halt.

He later told the club’s website that he had spoken with owner Marcus Evans at the weekend to indicate he wanted to go early as he was uncomfortable in the position once it became clear his contract wouldn’t be renewed.

“We agreed that it was in the best interests for me, the players and the club that I move on now,” he said.

“I said I would see the season out but it’s been a new experience and it’s not one I have been enjoying to be honest.

“I have continued to do my job to the best of my ability but there is something missing and I’m not comfortable with that.”

McCarthy was the longestserving manager in the Championship having taken over as Ipswich boss in November 2012.