Owen Coyle was today sacked as manager of Bolton after a poor start to the season.
Bolton are 18th after winning just three of their opening 10 games in the Championship following relegation from the Premier League last season.
Coyle described Saturday’s 2-1 defeat by Millwall as the lowest point of his managerial career but insisted he had no intention of resigning.
However, following talks with owner Eddie Davies and chairman Phil Gartside, Coyle has left the Reebok Stadium after nearly three years in charge.
In a statement issued today, Gartside said: “Owen poured his heart and soul into the job, both on and off the pitch, and he led our club with great dignity during some very challenging times.
“It is the right time for a change. We set a target at the beginning of the season and want to get back on track.”
Former Wolves boss Mick McCarthy is the front-runner to replace Coyle, who took over at Bolton in January 2010, six months after guiding Burnley into the Premier League.
He led Bolton to safety in his first season in charge and led them to an FA Cup semi-final in 2010-11. But their 11-year spell in the Premier League ended earlier this year and they have struggled on their return to the Championship.
Coyle said today: “I have always been driven to act in the best interests of the club and care passionately about it.
“I had fantastic times here as a player and it has been a privilege to have held the post of manager.
“I want to thank the fans for their backing since I returned, the chairman Phil Gartside and the owner Eddie Davies for their support and friendship and the club’s staff and players for all their effort and commitment.”
Sammy Lee, head of academy coaching and development, and academy manager Jimmy Phillips will take temporary charge. Bolton’s next game is against Bristol City on Saturday week.
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