Strachan bows out after shaky start

Gordon Strachan has left Coventry City Football Club by "mutual consent".

The 44-year-old Scotsman and former Manchester United midfielder has come under increasing pressure since his club's relegation and subsequent poor start in Division One.

Strachan’s stress at Coventry (© Allsport)

On Saturday, Strachan was the subject of angry chants from Coventry fans as they watched their side slump to a one-nil defeat to Grimsby. Police were on hand to restrain supporters who tried to confront the fiery Scotsman.

Strachan has been at Coventry since he joined Ron Atkinson as assistant coach in 1995. Having taken sole charge in 1996, he kept the relegation wolf from Coventry’s door until last season when defeat to Aston Villa meant that they lef the top flight after 34 years.

Coventry chairman Brian Richardson payed tribute to Strachan, on the official Coventry website, for his years of loyal service to the club.

"I wish to place on record our sincere thanks and appreciation for Gordon’s efforts on our behalf both as a player and as manager," he said.

"For two years as a player he almost single handedly kept Coventry in the Premiership. As a manager he gave 100 per cent effort every day for this club.

"We all wish Gordon huge success in the future and thank him for his refreshing honesty, humour and sheer guts".