Ipswich have sacked manager Roy Keane after just 20 months in charge of the npower Championship strugglers.
The
former Republic of Ireland and Manchester United captain has paid the
price for a run of seven defeats in nine league games which has left the
club in 19th place and just three points above the relegation zone.
Keane,
39, guided Town to 15th in his first full season in charge and have a
Carling Cup semi-final first leg against Arsenal at Portman Road next
Wednesday after Sunday's FA Cup third-round tie at Chelsea.
First-team coach Ian McParland will take charge at Stamford Bridge.
Keane won 28 and lost 28 of his 81 games in charge of the Tractor Boys since taking over from Jim Magilton.
In a statement issued by The League Managers Association, Keane said: "I'm hugely disappointed to be leaving Portman Road.
"Results
haven't been as good as I'd have hoped so far this season and when
results aren't good the manager gets the sack, that's the game. However,
I have a genuine belief we were making progress and that the players
have what it takes to turn this season around.
"We were preparing
well for our visit to Chelsea on Sunday and then our Carling Cup semi
with Arsenal. Getting to that semi proves what I know the team is
capable of.
"I was also working hard to build the squad during
the transfer window, looking at our options to attract new players to
the club.
"I have loved my time at Ipswich, living locally to the
club with my family, and have a massive respect for the club, its staff,
the fans and the community and I wish them well."
Source: PA