Coleman axed by Cottagers
11 Apr 2007 - 00:33:36
Fulham have sacked manager Chris Coleman with just five games of the Premiership season to go, bringing in Northern Ireland boss Lawrie Sanchez to take charge on a caretaker basis.
Coleman first joined Fulham as a player in December 1997 and moved into coaching when injury ended his career just under four years later.
He took the top job at Craven Cottage in April 2003 following the departure of Jean Tigana and had kept the club in the top-flight throughout his reign.
However, both Coleman and his assistant, Steve Kean, were axed after a run of seven games without a win left the Cottagers just four points above the drop zone.
A statement from the Cottagers read: "Fulham Football Club announces its decision to replace Chris Coleman as manager with immediate effect.
"Chris Coleman has provided a fantastic service during his ten years at the club and it is disappointing that the club has no alternative but to part company with him.
"As a team and organisation, Fulham Football Club has goals to attain and success to achieve and by no means can this be compromised.
"After consultation with the Irish FA President, Jim Boyce, it is agreed that Lawrie Sanchez will join as caretaker manager for the remaining five Premiership games of the season."