Bristol City chairman Steve Lansdown says the club will not be rushed into making a decsion about a new manager following the departure of Gary Johnson.
He told Bristol City Player that he had felt the time was right for a change following City's defeat at Plymouth on Tuesday night, which followed heavy defeats at home to Cardiff and Doncaster in the new year.
But he praised his outgoing boss for doing a fantastic job as manager and said he would be a "hard act to follow".
Steve told Bristol City Player: "I know one game does not change everything but that game in Plymouth told me we had to have a discussion about where things were going.
"I spoke to my fellow directors and got their views and met Gary at his house. We had a discussion and both felt it was time for a change. I've always said that we would know when the time was right to move on and we think that time is now.
"I am very sad it has happened because we have had a great working relationship and he has done a fantastic job for us and will be a hard act to follow.
"But it is now a case of looking to the future and making the change that is right for the football club. I'm sure Gary will find himself a good home and do a very good job for another club."
 |
|
Steve Lansdown: "We've got a big game to look forward to." |
He added: "Realistically the season has now ended for us and we are not going to get into the play-offs. We should have the squad here to ensure we get the couple of wins we need to maintain our Championship status
"Keith Millen will be in charge for the forseeable future. He has done a good job over the years as a player, Academy manager and then assistant to Brian (Tinnion) and Gary.
"I spoke to my fellow directors and got their views and met Gary at his house."
| |
"Keith has got experience and is respected by the players and me. I think he is the right man to be in charge at this moment in time until we make a decision going forward.
"The next appointment will be a long-term one. We will not be rushed into doing things as we are not in panic stations.
"We've got a big game to look forward to at the weekend with Newcastle and it is a time for everyone, whether staff or supporters, to be positive."
Asked if he had anyone lined up for the vacant post, Steve responded: "There are all sorts of rumours flying aroud but I can tell you now that I have not met anyone or made an approach. That process will start now and we will take as long as we need to make the right decision for this football club."
Follow Bristol City through Twitter and receive 'tweet' updates direct from the club. Log-on to twitter.com/bcfctweets now. |
PLAYER: Gary Johnson video exclusive
