• Premier League

Mackay 'disappointed' over Cardiff sacking

ESPN staff
December 27, 2013


Malky Mackay has issued "disappointment" over his sacking as Cardiff City manager, but hopes progress made during his tenure will provide a "solid platform" for his successor.

Mackay was relieved of his duties by the Premier League club on Friday, following their Boxing Day home loss to Southampton.

Owner Vincent Tan earlier released his own statement on the situation, claiming it was "no longer fair" for the "uncomfortable state of affairs to continue". Following a public fallout with Tan, Mackay was reportedly asked to resign or face the sack.

However, the Scot has lifted the lid on his dismissal and indicated he leaves his post with his "head held high."

"It is with the deepest and most sincere regret that I today confirm my sacking as Manager of Cardiff City FC. As disappointing as today's decision is, I am already able to look back at my time at Cardiff City FC with immense pride and joy given the number of milestones the club achieved during the last two-and-a-half years," Mackay's statement read.

"A League Cup Final appearance followed by promotion to The Premiership for the very first time, achieved as winners of The Championship, allowed the club a move back to this elite level after a 51 year absence.

"I have enjoyed my time immensely at this fine club, in this great city, and throughout I've always attempted to put my own personal stamp on specific areas that I believe to be all-important, such as the implementation of a progressive culture as well a complete professional approach to all aspects of day-to-day management, that are required if you are to become a top club - and more importantly to remain as one.

"I would like to thank my players, all of my direct footballing staff, all the people behind the scenes at the club and most importantly the people of Cardiff, who have stood behind me resolutely throughout my time here and especially in these recent turbulent months.

"I leave with my head held high having gained a level of experience that, upon reflection, I suspect would have been difficult to find anywhere else in British football. The foundations laid at Cardiff City FC will provide a solid platform for my successor, and for the sake of the club, I hope that all of the progress that has been made so far will not be impaired in any way by today's enforced changes."

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