Newell sacked as Grimsby manager

Highlights of Newell's last game in charge - a 2-0 defeat against Rochdale

Struggling League Two side Grimsby have sacked manager Mike Newell after a poor start to the season.

The Mariners lost at home to Rochdale on Saturday - their fourth league defeat in succession - which left them second bottom of the table.

A club statement read: "Despite the intention for support beyond the recent poor results, the club has dismissed Mike due to irretrievable breakdown."

Youth team boss Neil Woods will take over as caretaker manager.

The statement continued: "The directors believe they have done everything possible to back him during his period with the club but were left with no alternative but to terminate his contract with immediate effect.

"The club appreciates Mike Newell's efforts to take this football club forward and wish him all the best for the future.

606: DEBATE Sounds as though the board made the correct decision BrowneeImp Eat My Goal

"The club will now begin the task of selecting and appointing a new manager."

Newell took over from Stuart Watkiss in October 2008 with Grimsby fourth bottom of the table and managed to help the club avoid dropping out of the Football League - although they did still finish in a lowly 22nd place.

However, any hopes of a revived showing this term quickly evaporated for the former Luton and Hartlepool boss, as the Mariners slipped into the relegation zone with only Darlington below them.