Mowbray makes Bhoys exit

Celtic boss departs after humiliating thrashing

Mowbray: Leaves Celtic

Mowbray's Celtic record

Played: 44
Won: 22
Drawn: 9
Lost: 13

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Celtic have sacked manager Tony Mowbray following a woeful campaign in Scotland's top flight, with Neil Lennon agreeing to take over.

Mowbray's assistant manager Mark Venus and Peter Grant have also lost their jobs on Thursday.

The Bhoys were expected to challenge Rangers for the SPL title this season, but are currently well adrift of their arch rivals.

Celtic missed the chance to close the gap on Wednesday following a humiliating 4-0 thrashing at the hands of St Mirren.

Mowbray was named Gordon Strachan'sreplacement last summer, but the ex-West Brom tactician has found the Parkhead faithful a tough crowd to win over.

Strachan won the SPL title three times in four years while Celtic's defeat to the Buddies was their 13th of the season under Mowbray.

Disappointment

Chairman John Reid has expressed his disappointment at the way Celtic's season has unfolded, stating Mowbray has always acted with great dignity.

"On behalf of the board and everyone at Celtic, I would like to offer Tony Mowbray my thanks and sincere best wishes for the future," said Reid.

"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."

Very proud

Reacting to his departure, Mowbray said: "Naturally, I am very disappointed to be leaving 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."

Reserve-team coach Lennon has been asked to take over for the remainder of the season and he has accepted the post.