Celtic have confirmed that manager Tony Mowbray has left his post and that former midfielder Neil Lennon has agreed to take temporary charge at Parkhead until the end of the season.
The 46-year-old’s exit followed last night’s 4-0 SPL thrashing at St Mirren, which left the Hoops 10 points behind arch-rivals Rangers having played two games more.
It is believed Mowbray met chief executive Peter Lawwell at Celtic’s Lennoxtown training ground today when the decision was taken to end his nine-month tenure.
Assistant manager Mark Venus and Peter Grant have also lost their jobs, with former Northern Ireland star Lennon appointed interim manager.
Reacting to his departure, Mowbray said: “Naturally, I am very disappointed to be leaving Glasgow Celtic.
“I am very proud to have not only managed but also played for a club with such great tradition and that has tremendous roots in football history.
“I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all of the players and also to my staff who supported me so well. Finally, I would like to wish the club every success in the future.”
Celtic chairman John Reid paid tribute to how Mowbray took the news of his sacking.
Reid said: “On behalf of the board and everyone at Celtic Football Club, I would like to offer Tony Mowbray my thanks and sincere best wishes for the future.
“Tony is held in great affection by Celtic fans and it is obviously with great disappointment that we make today’s statement.
“During his period here, Tony has always acted with great dignity as he has done today.
“We are all Celtic supporters, faithful through and through, Tony included.
“We are all disappointed at the way things have gone this season.
“However, as supporters, we will collectively build again to re-establish the club to its pre-eminent position within Scottish football.”
Chief executive Peter Lawwell added: “This is a very sad day for everyone at Celtic. Tony is a very fine man and someone who I know is passionate about the club he served so well as a player.
“Clearly, we have had a difficult season and results have not been as we would have hoped.
“Tony is equally disappointed at some of our results this season but, working so closely with him, I know that throughout his period as manager he has always given the club his total and absolute commitment.
“Tony will always maintain a strong affection for Celtic and I am sure he will always be highly thought of within the Celtic family. He is a man who demonstrates decency and integrity in everything he does.
“I have enjoyed an excellent relationship with him and I certainly wish Tony, Mark Venus and Peter Grant all the very best for the future.”