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Mick McCarthy leaves Ipswich Town with immediate effect

Written by on 11/04/2018

Manager Mick McCarthy and his assistant Terry Connor have left Ipswich Town with immediate effect.

The 59-year-old was due to stay in charge until his contract ran out at the end of the season but following discussions with Ipswich owner Marcus Evans, both parties have agreed to cut his contract short after Tuesday night’s 1-0 home win over Barnsley.

The former Republic of Ireland boss has been in charge at Portman Road for almost six years and had been the longest-serving manager in the second tier.

“I spoke with Marcus at the weekend and we agreed that it was in the best interests for me, the players and the club that I move on now,” he told Ipswich’s website.

After the win, McCarthy told reporters why he was leaving despite a positive result on the night.

He said: “Started with a win, finish with a win. You can probably see why I am going. The reaction after I took Barry Cotter off, that’s just pathetic. I’ve signed him and played him. He’s absolutely knackered and has to come off.

“That was a disgraceful reaction but I won’t have to listen to it again because that’s my last game, I’m out of here.

“Yeah, I am out of here. It’s sad because I’ve loved my time here. I thank everybody for their support.

“I did [instigate the decision]. You know full well how I felt at the weekend. I’ve done my bit and left them in far better shape than when I arrived.

“The lads have been brilliant and I’ve enjoyed that game today. We played well and we could have won by more.

“But I’m caretaker manager in my own job, which is ridiculous. I’m happy to move on.

“It’s an all-inclusive club and I thank everyone for their support. I take real pride in the job I’ve done.

“I can’t think of one member of staff who wants me to leave or one player who wants me to leave.

“It’s an unusual situation, isn’t it? I take pride in that. I love the bones of the lads.”

McCarthy confirmed he will stay in management after leaving Portman Road.

He added: “I’ll go again. I’m looking for a job.”

Ipswich later confirmed that Bryan Klug, the club’s head of coaching and academy development, would be in caretaker charge of Town until the end of the season.

(c) Sky News 2018: Mick McCarthy leaves Ipswich Town with immediate effect