Mixu Paatelainen to leave Dundee United after relegation
Wednesday 4 May 2016 10:35, UK
Mixu Paatelainen is to leave his position as Dundee United head coach in the next 48 hours, Sky sources understand.
United were beaten 2-1 by rivals Dundee on Monday night, a result that confirmed they will be playing in the Scottish Championship next season.
Earlier, Dundee United chairman Stephen Thompson issued a statement apologising to the fans for the relegation - it did not mention Paatelainen's position but his departure to be confirmed in the next 24-48 hours.
Paatelainen was in charge for 30 games, winning eight, drawing five and losing 17, including Monday's Dundee derby at Dens Park which confirmed the club's relegation for the first time since 1995.
The manager had been in talks with Thompson and general manager David Southern for around half an hour at Tannadice shortly after 1.30pm on Tuesday.
Thompson's statement said he takes responsibility for the club's problems and outlined his vision for an improved future, which includes seeking fresh investment.
"Dundee United have let you, the supporters, down this season. I apologise unreservedly to all of you for our relegation from the Ladbrokes Premiership," Thompson told the club's official website.
"As the chairman, the buck stops with me and I accept full responsibility for what has happened. The big decisions were mine and I got some of them wrong.
"I have backed managers with the third biggest budget in the league but the results have not been acceptable. In the near future, many radical changes will be made to try to ensure our quick return to the top league.
"Further changes will see increased fan representation as well as boardroom changes to re-vitalise and re-energise the club. There will also be much better, more regular, more open and transparent communication with you, the fans, who are the lifeblood of Dundee United.
"I am currently seeking fresh investment in the club which may in time lead to me standing aside, and I aim to strengthen our current financial position to launch a bid for an immediate return to the top flight. I understand calls for change and am open to realistic well-funded proposals that can bring in major investment.
"However, with the serious financial challenges we face in the Championship, I will not put the club's existence in peril by simply handing over the keys unless any proposed investor is well financed and can offer a sustainable alternative.
"The board has worked over a period of time to review and restructure the club. Financially, there will be a substantial drop in income due to relegation that will mean cost reductions across the club. These include both on and off-field operations that will be implemented after consultation with employees.
"I am determined to return this club to the top of Scottish football as soon as possible and once again offer every United supporter my unreserved apologies for what has happened on my watch.
"I ask you now for your continued support: already over 1,100 have renewed your season ticket during our loyalty period and I thank you for this excellent take-up. It has never been more sorely needed as the job of rebuilding this great club for the future begins in earnest."
