Ross bids farewell to Buddies
Craig Ritchie
Jack Ross issued a heartfelt farewell after his move from St Mirren to Sunderland was finally confirmed yesterday.
Ross and his assistant manager James Fowler have both agreed twoyear deals at the Stadium of Light as they prepare to be tasked with guiding the Wearside club back up through the leagues following their relegation to League One.
It brings an end to the duo’s 20- month reign in charge of the Paisley side, which first saw the 41-year-old salvage safety from the bottom of the Championship in his first season in charge.
They then led the Buddies back to the top flight of Scottish football in a stunning campaign which saw the side take the title by 12 points following a dominant campaign.
And Ross admitted he has made memories that will last a lifetime as he waved goodbye to the Paisley men.
He said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to so many people involved at St Mirren FC for the experiences of the past 20 months.
“To my players and staff who have worked tirelessly to support the work we do and who have been relentless in their pursuit of success and their desire to drive the club forwards.
“To the chairman Gordon Scott and directors Alan Wardrop, Chris Stewart and David Nicol for their willingness and indeed patience to help meet my demands for excellence at the club, and to chief executive Tony Fitzpatrick and my guru Gavin Whyte for their incredible backing and unwavering faith in me.
“To the fantastic support, I cannot thank you enough for sticking with me, backing us in our hour of need and then joining us on the terrific journey of the past season and a half.
“I am immensely proud that I have helped to give you your club back and I have always said that your unwavering passion for your club was there long before me and will continue long after my time.
“It has not been an easy decision to leave a club and a job which I loved but I have been offered an exciting career opportunity, the challenge of which I look forward to meeting.
“The days at Easter Road last May, and April 21 and 28 at our stadium and in the town will be memories I will always treasure and I wish all Buddies every future success.”