MANCHESTER City have sacked Sven-Goran Eriksson.

The Swedish manager, who will receive a £1million pay off, has finally been put out of his misery by owner Thaksin Shinawatra, who is thought to be unhappy with City's performance in the second half of the season.

A meeting between Eriksson and Shinawatra after the Blues' embarrassing 3-2 defeat at home to Fulham seemed to signal the end for Eriksson, and so it has proved.

In a statement on www.mcfc.co.uk, Eriksson said: “I have enjoyed my time at Manchester City very much indeed and in particular, I would like to thank the fans, players and staff for their amazing support over the season.

“I wish the club - and everyone associated with it - much success in the coming years.”

City are now in talks with Blackburn boss Mark Hughes over the vacancy, and Rovers have reluctantly given their man permission to talk.

Talks

Eriksson demanded talks over his future following the season-ending 8-1 hammering at Middlesbrough.

Yet Shinawatra responded only by saying he was undergoing a thorough review of the season, leaving Eriksson to take charge of a two-match tour of the Far East.

The review does not appear to have convinced Shinawatra he had the right man to take City forward, even though Eriksson guided the Blues to a derby double over Manchester United and had his side challenging for a Champions League spot for over half of the campaign.

And even by landing a spot in next season’s UEFA Cup via the Fair Play League and vociferous support from the City fans, Shinawatra has acted.

“The board of directors and all at Manchester City would like to thank Sven for his efforts and contributions throughout the season,” said City chief executive Alistair Mackintosh.

“We wish him all the best for the future. Sven remains a friend of the club.”

What do you think of the decision? Have your say.
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