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In a move that will surprise few David Hodgson has been sacked by Darlington, ending his third spell as manager at the club.
In a statement on the official Darlington site, Chairman George Houghton alluded towards the ongoing differences between Hodgson and Chief Executive Jon Sotnick being a factor in the decision, and also the alleged approach from Bournemouth for Hodgson's services:
"Recent results on the pitch have been disappointing given the substantial growth in the playing budget. At this period, with a quarter of the season elapsed, it is right to review matters in order to have the best possible chance for promotion this season. I have also introduced a new approach to running the club and it has become apparent that differences in management styles have emerged. At the start of the season I said that I needed 100 per cent commitment from my senior management team. I cannot reconcile this requirement with the manager's discussions with another club. It has to be Darlington Football Club first and always."
Reports on some Darlington sites suggest that Bournemouth had been approached by representatives of Hodgson behind Darlington's backs, but Hodgson maintains that Bournemouth approached Darlington first. Darlington are to ask the FA to examine the matter.
In other news, Paul Ince has denied reports linking him with a coaching job at Accrington and the managers post at Macclesfield, saying that he is yet to decide his future.
