Former Blackpool FC chief executive releases statement

Cowdy's departure was announced on the club's website less than an hour after the team had drawn 0-0 with Bristol Rovers on Saturday.

The club confirmed he would leave his role with "immediate effect".

The news came as a shock as Cowdy was present at Blackpool's fixture and was seen in the tunnel area post-match.Cowdy has since taken to Twitter to release a statement, which does not make any reference to why he left the club and does not mention the club's owners, the Oyston family.

The statement reads: "Following my departure from the position of of chief executive/club secretary at Blackpool FC, I would like to send my thanks for the many kind messages and well wishes I have received.

"I would like to thank the manager Gary Bowyer and all the staff for their hard work and send my best wishes for the rest of the season.

"I joined the club as club secretary in March 2016, taking on the additional responsibility of chief executive three months later.

"I have thoroughly relished the challenge of overseeing the day-to-day running of Blackpool FC and feel proud to have been part of the promotion to League One achieved at the Wembley play-off final in May 2017.

"I wish the club and its supporters all the very best for the future. Up the Pool!"

The club moved swiftly to appoint Steve Edwards as their new secretary on Monday.Edwards, who currently works as a youth team administrator, had previously worked as secretary at Fleetwood Town for 11 years.

A permanent secretary will be appointed in due course.