Warnock and Cardiff go their separate ways

NEIL WARNOCK has left Cardiff by mutual consent after Saturday’s defeat by Bristol City left them seven points adrift of the play-off places.

The 70-year-old was appointed in October 2016 with Cardiff second from bottom in the Championship. He guided them to the Premier League in 2018.

Cardiff were relegated after a season in the top flight. They are 14th in the second tier after one win in their last six league games.

Former Millwall manager Neil Harris is among the front-runners to replace him.

Warnock ( right) said: ‘I am leaving my beloved Bluebirds after over three years of which have been some of the best days in my long football career.

‘I would especially like to thank Mehmet Dalman whom I have said many times has been one of the best chairman I have had the privilege to work for.

‘His support has been immense, especially in 2019 which for many reasons both on and off the field has been the most challenging period both emotionally and physically that I have ever encountered,’ added Warnock.

Warnock was referring to the deaths of Argentine striker Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson, who were travelling from Nantes to Cardiff when their plane crashed into the Channel near Guernsey.

Dalman said Warnock had played a huge role in galvanising the club. ‘He not only gained promotion but played a pivotal role in uniting the fans and the club. I am personally upset by his departure and wish him the very best for the future.’ Cardiff’s executive director and chief executive officer Ken Choo said it was ‘a shared belief that this is the right time for a new voice’.

• BARNSLEY are being investigated by the FA after supporters chanted anti-IRA and anti-Pope songs during their 4-2 home defeat by Stoke on Saturday.

A small section of fans of the home club were heard to sing songs including the words ‘f*** the Pope and the IRA’ and ‘f*** the IRA’ a number of times, while Stoke winger James McClean was regularly booed.

McClean, 30, is from Londonderry, and the Republic of Ireland international declined to wear a poppy on his shirt. Referee Jeremy Simpson included an allegation of discriminatory behaviour in his report. The FA are looking into it.