- Premier League
Cardiff manager Mackay sacked
Cardiff City have sacked manager Malky Mackay.
Mackay's position at Cardiff has been the subject of increasing uncertainty following a public falling out with owner Vincent Tan after the Scot was reportedly asked to resign or face the sack.
The ultimatum appeared to be lifted prior to Christmas only for a disappointing 3-0 home defeat to Southampton to intensify the pressure on Mackay.
Tan released a statement to Sky Sports News shortly after Mackay was relieved of his duties, maintaining the decision had been made for footballing reasons only.
"There has been a good deal of publicity generated by, and about, Mr Malky Mackay for the last few months," Tan's statement read. "I have deliberately not responded to this, hoping that the club can be judged on its football rather than personalised arguments about who said what to whom.
"I have, however, regretfully concluded that it is no longer fair to the club, its players, its fans and the public more generally for this uncomfortable state of affairs to continue. Cardiff City Football Club means far too much to us all for it to be distracted by this."
The Board of Directors at #CardiffCity have relieved Malky Mackay of his duties. A new first team manager will be appointed in due course.— Cardiff City FC (@CardiffCityFC) December 27, 2013
Mackay, 41, was appointed manager of Cardiff in June 2011 and last season he led the club to promotion to the Premier League as they finished top of the Championship.
The Welsh club are currently 16th in the Premier League table, a point above the relegation zone after five wins from their opening 18 matches.
David Kerslacke and Joe McBride will take charge of the side for Saturday's game against Sunderland.
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