Losing City job took me by surprise, claims Dods

BRECHIN: Former defender insists he’ll bounce back from Glebe Park departure

Darren Dods’ renowned enthusiasm for football has taken a knock after losing his job as Brechin boss but he is sure he will bounce back.

Dods became the 15th managerial change of the Scottish season when he was advised that the Glebe Park club wanted a new man at the helm.

His assistant Lee Bailey also left the Angus side.

Dods had been in charge of City since the summer of 2015 and had seen a successful relegation fight, an unexpected promotion and then a winless Championship season.

Brechin sit sixth at present in League One but a 3-1 derby defeat from Montrose on Saturday was the catalyst for change that caught Dods by surprise.

He said: “These things happen but I was not fully expecting it.

“Brechin are sitting just outside the play-off places in a tight league and whilst we have been inconsistent we have not been on a long run of losing games.

“Losing to our local rivals at the weekend was disappointing.

“The chairman explained that the fans wanted a change and that led to the supporters in hospitality looking for a change. That puts a club under pressure and when it was put to the committee they opted for a change as well.

“I said my goodbyes to the players on Tuesday night. They are a good group and I wish them and the club well as they gave me an opportunity in management.”

Just less than 18 months ago, Dods and Brechin were buoyant after a penalty kick shoot-out success over Alloa saw them promoted to the Championship via the play-offs.

Dods said: “That was a fantastic day for everyone connected at the club and something everyone can look back on with pride.

“It was always going to be difficult in the Championship with a League One budget and that is how it turned out.

“What happened last season probably planted a few seeds for what has just happened now. However, it is done now and we will all move on.

“I have always loved football and I am sure once I have had time to get my head round this week I will love it again.”

Dods began his managerial career with the short hop across Angus three and-a-half years ago after a two-season spell with Forfar.

He had previously worn the colours of Hibs, St Johnstone, Inverness CT, Dundee United and Falkirk in a long and illustrious playing career.

Brechin are the fourth League One club to change their manager this season after Raith Rovers, Airdrieonians and Dumbarton.

SNS. Darren Dods had been in charge of Brechin since 2015.