Legendary former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson has left his managerial role with Alloa Athletic – and will be cursing ever leaving Kelty Hearts.
The ex-Gers skipper did a great job bringing the former Lowland League club into the SPFL but jumped ship in the summer after Alloa came calling following their relegation from the Championship.
But the Wasps have not faired well in League One and Barry Ferguson has resigned as manager with Alloa 8th in the division and genuine relegation candidates.
They currently sit a point above Peterhead in 9th and a relegation playoff spot, but the Blue Toon have two games in hand on their Scottish third tier rivals.
“The Club can confirm that the manager has today tendered his resignation,” reads an Alloa Athletic statement.
“Barry believes that the team needs a change in direction over the rest of the season and he therefore wishes to step aside to allow someone else time to give the players that fresh impetus.”
Alloa Chairman Mike Mulraney said: “I have huge respect for Barry and appreciate the effort he has given the Club this season, whilst I share Barry’s disappointment in our performances over the last few weeks I have nothing but praise for his endeavour and commitment to the Club in his time with us. His professionalism and dedication has been a credit to him and he leaves with our best wishes and thanks.”
Barry Ferguson leaves Alloa as ex-Rangers teammate shines at Kelty
The news comes amid a woeful run of one win in eleven games with the weekend’s 3-1 defeat to East Fife was the final straw for Rangers legend Barry Ferguson and Alloa.
The contrast with the success of Kelty Hearts this season is interesting too, with ex-Rangers teammate Kevin Thomson taking Ferguson’s place at the club.
It’s been an impressive first season in management for Thomson, who has Kelty 10 points clear in League Two with a game in hand and a clear frontrunner for promotion.
It stands as evidence that the grass is not always greener on the other side and perhaps Ferguson’s decision to move to Alloa will be one that he looks back on with regret in the years to come.
Taking the job was also controversial to many Rangers fans due to the relationship between the Gers and outspoken Alloa chairman Mike Mulraney.
Barry Ferguson clearly didn’t enjoy the best of times at Alloa Athletic and the Rangers legend was even once filmed in an altercation with supporters.
