Former Blackpool boss Ian Holloway resigns as Grimsby Town manager amid takeover talk

Former Blackpool boss Ian Holloway has resigned as the manager of Grimsby Town.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now
Read More
Blackpool boss Neil Critchley has total faith in Matty Virtue

The 57-year-old has released a lengthy statement on Twitter announcing his decision, where he claims majority shareholder John Fenty is intending to sell the club.

Explaining why he is stepping down, Holloway revealed he felt it was "inappropriate" for the potential new owners to make contact with him before the takeover was completed.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The former Pool boss, who led the Seasiders to the Premier League in 2010, leaves Grimsby in 20th place in League Two, six points above the relegation zone.

It follows last night's 1-0 home defeat to Bradford City.

"To all the fans, It is with a heavy heart that I am announcing my resignation as manager of Grimsby Town Football Club," Holloway posted on social media.

"New wannabe owners are hovering over GTFC and John has told me he is selling his stake in the club. So it’s time for a fresh start across the board for this great club.

Ian HollowayIan Holloway
Ian Holloway

"As I said recently, I intend to be fully honest with you, the supporters. Contact was made by the new owners to me on several occasions before the takeover, which I felt was inappropriate, and told them as such. This is the key factor in my decision.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"Why? The relationship between the incoming new owners, board and manager is so so important. It needs to be strong for a club to succeed, and we got off on the wrong footing. Therefore, that relationship will be strained from the off, which is bad for the club.

"This is a club that, if everybody has its best interests at heart, can progress onwards and upwards. That is their challenge. That is their honour. I sincerely wish them all the best going forward and I implore them to communicate regularly and openly with the fans.

"For a myriad of reasons, on and off the pitch, it feels like we didn’t get a fair crack together, and I take me share of the blame too. I hoped for this to be a long, serious relationship but it hasn’t worked out that way, and that saddens me.

"I wish you every bit of success. The fans deserve it. God bless."

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 for your first month. Try us today by clicking here