John Askey has been sacked as York City manager.
BBC Radio York football reporter David Ward broke the story this morning (Wednesday). The club then confirmed the news in a statement.
Fans have reacted with shock at the news that Askey, who “produced a minor footballing miracle” by getting City promoted from National League North in the playoffs last season, has been ousted by new chairman Glen Henderson.
City had a great start to their first season in the National League.
They have been on a poorer run of late, without a win in seven games. But City still stand at 12th in the table.
York City have put out this statement:
“Following a number of discussions between the board and John Askey in recent weeks, York City Football Club has today decided to part company by ending his contract of employment.
“Given John’s popularity and his incredible success last season, we understand that many fans may be upset and confused by this decision. However, after taking numerous factors into consideration the board are confident that it is in the best interests of the football club.
“Recruitment of a new manager will commence immediately, and we aim to make an appointment by the end of the month. An interim manager will be appointed from within the club’s existing staff, with a further announcement due shortly.
“We are eternally grateful to John for his efforts to help us gain promotion last season and wish him the very best of luck in his future career.”
Tensions between Askey and Henderson were laid bare when the chairman took part in a Radio York Q&A.
Henderson admitted Askey had been unhappy at being told how to do his job, and they disagreed over the manager’s assertion that he had been given a mid-table budget.
Yorkshire Post reporter Stuart Rayner said on Twitter that the tensions between the two men were clear at the Wigginton Road training ground the following day.
Fans have reacted with anger and dismay at the news.
If I was a football club I would simply not sack a good manager.
— Jim Waterson (@jimwaterson) November 16, 2022
Absolute madness
— rob woolford (@mrwoolford) November 16, 2022
Scandalous. Obviously a big falling out between the majority shareholder and Askey. Such a shame
— Steve Craig (@Yorkiecherry) November 16, 2022
Signed a new contract
John Askey was appointed York City manager last November, after previous manager Steve Watson was sacked.
At the time, the club was 11th in the league – five places and two points from the play-off places.
Askey then guided the team to the National League playoffs and the FA Trophy semi final.
He became a club hero after City beat Boston United 2-0 in the playoff final to gain promotion in front of more than 7,400 delirious fans at the LNER Community Stadium in May.
Askey then turned down a chance to join League Two club Rochdale, and in September signed a new deal with City until the end of the 2023/24 season.
Fans who have been donating their own money to the Boost The Budget fund for players are now asking how the club can afford to pay off that contract.
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