Quakers lift lid on Hodgson
18 Oct 2006 - 10:35:51
Darlington claim an alleged breach of rules regarding payments to agents was one of the main reasons why they decided to sack boss David Hodgson.
Hodgson, who has managed the Quakers on three separate occasions, was suspended by the club on September 30 and officially axed four days later. And, following an inquiry by the club, director David Jones was also suspended from his position.
A statement by the League Two side read: "Following a disciplinary hearing, Darlington Football Club has confirmed its decision to end the tenure of David Hodgson as its football manager.
"The hearing heard five allegations against Mr Hodgson, of which three were not proven, but two were upheld.
"These concerned a breach of Football League rules governing payments to agents involved in transfer deals.
"As a result of Mr Hodgson's defence, which concerned a period of time between new owners taking the helm and the chief executive being recruited, an emergency board meeting was called, for which the chairman (George Houghton) was consulted by telephone.
"The meeting decided to suspend director David Jones with immediate effect pending further investigations.
"The club has already met with The FA and Football League and has presented its interim findings in this matter.
"Now that closure has been achieved Darlington Football Club can step up its efforts to establish a new and successful football infrastructure.
"The club has already announced it will recruit a director of football, a manager and assistant manager and expects to make these appointments within the coming weeks."