http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/30082010/58/league-southampton-sack-pardew.htmlLeague One - Southampton sack Pardew
Eurosport - Mon, 30 Aug 08:43:00 2010
Southampton have sacked manager Alan Pardew after 13 months in charge at St Mary's.
Despite a 4-0 victory at Bristol Rovers on Saturday, former Reading, West Ham and Charlton boss Pardew has been relieved of his duties.
Dean Wilkins has been appointed as caretaker manager.
A club statement said: "Following a review of the current status in and around the First Team, the Club has decided that, to achieve its well known targets, it is essential to make changes to the First Team management and coaching.
"These targets for sustained and significant progress embrace both the First Team and the Football Development & Support Centre as integrated, co-operative units.
"Consequently, the First Team Manager, Alan Pardew; First Team Coach, Wally Downes; and Goalkeeping Coach, Stuart Murdoch have been relieved of their duties with immediate effect. The Club wishes them well for the future.
"While we have commenced our careful evaluation of our candidates and longer term requirements, Dean Wilkins has taken on the caretaker role for the First Team and he will be assisted by Martin Hunter, the Under 21 coach.
"We recognise that frequent changes to the football management are unlikely to assist in the winning of trophies and promotions.
"However, we are taking these steps to achieve our aims, which we share with all supporters, to get promoted this season, and secure long term stability and progress for our football operations."
Southampton finished seventh in League One under Pardew last season and would have reached the play-offs if it had not been for a 10 point deduction after their holding company, Southampton Leisure Holdings plc, went into administration in 2009..
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