Chester sack Williamson

(GETTY IMAGES)

Chester have parted company with manager Bobby Williamson following a grim sequence of one win in 14 games by the League Two strugglers.

The former Hibernian and Plymouth manager, 46, took charge at the Deva Stadium in May 2007 as the successor to Mark Wright.

But, after an encouraging start to the season, Saturday's 1-0 defeat at leaders Milton Keynes Dons left City languishing in 17th place – 10 points above the relegation zone.

Simon Davies, the youth team coach, has been placed in temporary charge for tomorrow's game with Darlington.

A club statement said: "Chester City and Bobby Williamson have parted company after nine months. Williamson came to the Deva Stadium last May and made a great start to the season with the Blues being in the hunt for a play-off place.

"However, a dismal run of results, seeing City have one win in 14, has seen the club drop down the League Two table. Simon Davies will take control of matters for the game at Darlington on Tuesday evening."

Kevin Phillips has won the FourFourTwo Player of the Year for the Championship at the 2008 Football League Awards.

The 34-year-old West Bromwich Albion striker received the award at the London Hilton last night. He was followed by runners-up Andy Gray of Charlton Athletic and the midfielder Michael Kightly of Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Phillips received the award as a result of being ranked first in the FourFourTwo Top 50 Football League Players which was also announced at the awards dinner.