Irish Sunday Mirror

Big Mick a goner after just 14 games

- ❱ Kenilworth Road, Tomorrow, 3pm, Sky Sports By SHANE MACDERMOTT

MICK MCCARTHY has left Blackpool after just 14 games in charge, with the club deep in relegation trouble.

Big Mick and long-term assistant Terry Connor, who were appointed in January until the end of the season, exited Bloomfield Road after Friday’s 3-1 home defeat by Cardiff left the Seasiders seven points adrift of safety.

A club statement read: “Mick Mccarthy and Terry Connor have both left the club by mutual consent. With results on the pitch not improving in recent weeks, the decision has been agreed by both parties that a change is needed.”

Mccarthy replaced Michael Appleton and, after a 2-1 FA Cup defeat at Southampto­n, managed just two victories and three draws in 13 league fixtures.

He said: “After recent performanc­es and results, I have thought long and hard and feel this is the best decision for everyone concerned with the football club. I’ve loved my time here and thank everyone for their support.”

Senior profession­al developmen­t lead phase coach Stephen Dobbie will take charge for the rest of the season, assisted by Matt Blinkhorn and Steve Banks.

Luton are eight points behind second-placed Sheffield United ahead of hosting Blackpool tomorrow.

Boss Rob Edwards said: “Every manager in the Championsh­ip dreams of taking a team to the Premier League.

“I’d love to be there one day. We’re in a fantastic position where we’re fighting for something but we have to stay grounded and humble.

“It’s good to be able to dream and have aspiration­s. You can hear the fans singing about it and they have to enjoy these moments because it’s not every year you get that.

“You’ve got to enjoy good times because we’ve had some tough times here.”

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