MK Dons sack Murdoch

Milton Keynes Dons have sacked manager Stuart Murdoch.

Jimmy Gilligan, assistant manager to Murdoch, has taken temporary charge, assisted by player-coach Steve Palmer.

An MK Dons statement read: "Following a meeting between the chairman and Stuart Murdoch it has been decided that Stuart be relieved of his position as first team manager with immediate effect."

Murdoch was formerly goalkeeping coach before succeeding Terry Burton as manager in April 2002.

The Dons finished 10th under him in 2001-02 but after relegation last season, the club are now second-from-bottom of League One.

Jimmy Gilligan, assistant manager, and Steve Palmer, player-coach, have been placed in temporary charge of the club.

Chairman Pete Winkelman said: "I would like to thank Stuart for his efforts in helping to secure the future of Milton Keynes Dons FC."