Ian Murray sacked as Greenock Morton manager after club sinks to bottom of Scottish Championship

Manager departs Cappielow amid winless start

Greenock Morton have confirmed that manager Ian Murray has been relieved of his duties with immediate effect, with the club bottom of the Scottish Championship after a disastrous start to the season.

Morton sit on one point from their opening eight league fixtures, three points adrift of second-bottom Queen’s Park. The Greenock side are next in action at home to Raith Rovers on Saturday.

Interim charge and board statement

Coach Bill Orr has also been relieved of his duties, leaving first-team player Michael O’Halloran and Gary Miller to take charge of the first team on an interim basis.

A club spokesperson said: "The board of Greenock Morton Football Club can confirm that Ian Murray has been relieved of his duties as first team manager with immediate effect. First team coach Bill Orr has also been relieved of his duties."

"We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to both Ian and Bill for their hard work, commitment and professionalism during their time at the club. Everyone at Morton wishes them both the very best for the future."

The statement added: "The club recognises the disappointment felt by supporters and understands the importance of the weeks ahead."

Poor run under Murray

The 45-year-old former Hibernian, Rangers and Scotland player took over at Cappielow in January, having previously managed Dumbarton, St Mirren, Airdrieonians and Raith Rovers.

Murray won four of 29 games in charge. The club has also been impacted off the pitch this season, with a sponsor encountering difficulties that has had a knock-on effect on finances and recruitment.