Post by Taxigirl on Jan 9, 2004 11:08:44 GMT
Southampton manager Gordon Strachan will end his spell in charge with the club in the summer for 'medical and personal reasons'.
Saints issued a statement on their website saying the ex-Coventry boss would step down at the end of the current campaign when his present deal expires to have 'a break from the demands and pressures associated with being a Premier League football manager'.
The Scot guided the South Coast club to a top half finish and the FA Cup final last season which ensured a place in this season's Uefa Cup, although the voyage was short-lived.
The statement read: "In keeping with our philosophy of open and transparent management of our club, it is with some sadness that Southampton Football Club announces that Gordon Strachan has decided not to extend his contract with us beyond the end of this season.
"A new contract has been under discussion for some time now but Gordon has decided that, for medical and other personal reasons, he needs a break from the demands and pressures that are associated with being a Premier League football manager.
"The decision was Gordon's and press speculation over the relationship between him and chairman Rupert Lowe, contract length, remuneration and transfer funding are completely unfounded and have no bearing on a decision made for purely personal reasons. Gordon has indicated that he will continue to live in the Southampton area."
Strachan had been linked with a return to Leeds United earlier in the season after Peter Reid’s sacking and apparent breakdown in relationship with his chairman, but Lowe moved to put the record straight.
Lowe said: "Gordon and I have fully discussed the situation and are comfortable with his decision. Despite the fact that we may appear an unlikely partnership, I have very much enjoyed working with Gordon over the past two and a half years.
"His enthusiasm and commitment have inspired everybody and the club has moved forward during a crucial period after leaving The Dell and moving to the Friends Provident St Mary's Stadium.
"Gordon has assured me that he will give 110 percent for the balance of this season in order to capitalise on our current position in the league. Our fans will be sad to see a man, whose passion matched theirs, taking time out of the game.
"I sincerely hope that everyone associated with the club will give Gordon and the team their full support for the balance of the season."