Nottingham Forest begin search for new manager

Nottingham Forest are today beginning their search for a new manager and chairman after former England boss Steve McClaren's resignation was followed by that of owner Nigel Doughty.

McClaren's job was hanging by a thread after the 5-1 defeat to Burnley last week and yesterday's 3-1 home reverse at the hands of Birmingham proved the final straw.

Doughty accepted McClaren's resignation and then promptly signalled his own intention to stand down from his role as chairman at the end of the current campaign.

McClaren's record at Forest is an unhappy one, lasting just three and a half months and including six defeats in 10 npower Championship outings.

He leaves the club one place and one point above the relegation zone.

The club's official statement read: "Nottingham Forest can confirm that Steve McClaren has resigned from his role as manager.

"He has left the club without compensation - nor will he be seeking any. The club can confirm that the search for a new manager will begin immediately.

"Mr Doughty has also announced his intention to step down as chairman of the club at the end of the season after 10 years in the role.

"The search for a new chairman will commence immediately."

Forest also confirmed that Doughty's resignation as chairman would have no immediate bearing on his financial commitments as owner of the club.

"He will continue to support the club financially through the implementation of financial fair play rules, which are expected to be introduced in the Championship next season," the statement added.

McClaren, who was vilified by England fans after he failed to qualify for Euro 2008, had rehabilitated his reputation somewhat during a successful spell with FC Twente but came to Forest having been sacked by German side Wolfsburg.

McClaren endured a torrid run with a Forest side expected to challenge for promotion, with his lowest moment coming in Tuesday's 5-1 hammering by the Clarets.

That result raised serious questions over McClaren's future but, after David Pleat was removed from his part-time consultancy role in midweek, he appeared set to remain at the helm for the foreseeable future.

It became apparent that the manager's position was being discussed when McClaren did not emerge for the post-match press conference following yesterday's match and the conclusion of those talks was soon revealed.

PA