Greenock Morton have parted company with manager Ian Murray after a run that has left the club bottom of the Scottish Championship. The club also confirmed that first-team coach Bill Orr has left Cappielow. First-team player Michael O’Halloran and assistant manager Gary Miller will take charge in the interim.
Morton have collected one point from their opening eight league fixtures and sit three points behind second-bottom Queen’s Park. They host Raith Rovers on Saturday. The club’s difficult start has been accompanied by financial and recruitment challenges, with one of Morton’s sponsors having encountered difficulties that had a knock-on effect on the club this season.
Murray, 45, took over at Cappielow in January. The former Hibernian, Rangers and Scotland player had previously managed Dumbarton, St Mirren, Airdrieonians and Raith Rovers. In his time in charge, he won four of 29 games.
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.”
The spokesperson added: “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 spokesperson also said: “The club recognises the disappointment felt by supporters and understands the importance of the weeks ahead.”