Irvine sacked by struggling Lilywhites

29 December 2009 14:09
The former Everton assistant boss has won many admirers since being appointed at Deepdale in November 2007 and they claimed a top-six finish last season.[LNB]Yet the Lancashire outfit have struggled badly in recent weeks and chairman Derek Shaw decided to swing the axe after Monday's 1-0 loss at Sheffield United left North End with just one win in their last 10 league outings and in 16th place.[LNB]Shaw said: "The decision was not taken lightly. Alan did an extremely good job in keeping us in the Championship and took us to the play-offs last season.[LNB]"However, after a good start to the 2009/10 campaign we have only picked up seven points from a possible 30 since our last away victory against Sheffield Wednesday on October 20.[LNB]"In that period we have only scored six goals and that sort of record is not something we could allow to continue without addressing it."[LNB]Preston are eight points from both the play-off places and relegation zone - and operate with one of the smallest budgets in the division.[LNB]Shaw paid tribute to Irvine for his efforts.[LNB]"I would like to place on record the club's sincere thanks to Alan for his efforts in his time here," he said.[LNB]"We will make further comment and announce who is in charge for the weekend's FA Cup tie later this week."[LNB]Assistant manager Rob Kelly has agreed to take charge for the clash at home to Colchester in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.[LNB]Shaw told the club website: "After discussions with Robert Kelly, he has agreed to take charge of training from tomorrow (Wednesday) and will be in charge until any further announcement is made. [LNB]"He will be selecting the side for Saturday's game against Colchester United."[LNB][LNB]

Source: Team_Talk