York City

York City sack manager, immediately re-hire him as caretaker

Published Nov. 15, 2016 2:35 p.m. ET

Thomas Hautmann

You often hear about interim managers getting the post permanently (that is, until they get sacked), but how about a manager getting fired only to then immediately be hired as caretaker at the same club?

This utterly ridiculous scenario really has unfolded at fifth-division York City in England. (Only in England…)

Jackie McNamara was sacked on Monday after York plumped down to 19th place in the National League, just a few months after they were relegated from League 2. A reasonable move.

But all that reason went out the window when, in the very same statement released by the club, York announced that McNamara would be staying on until a long-term successor would be found.

“It has been decided, in the best interest of York City football club, that Jackie McNamara step down as first team manager. Performances, in the main, have not been acceptable nor have they achieved the high standards expected.”

“In order to assist the managerial transition period and to accommodate a thorough identification, interview and appointment process, the chairman has asked Jackie McNamara to train and prepare the team until a suitable candidate has been determined. This process should be completed within two weeks.”

Um, wow, okay. But what if York now dominate their next two games thanks to McNamara’s brilliant stewardship? Hmmm…

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