Stockport sack Palmer

Palmer has endured a mixed spell at Stockport

Stockport County have sacked manager Carlton Palmer after their poor start to the season.

The Hatters are languishing in 21st position in the Division Two table after picking up only six points from their opening eight matches.

Former England international midfielder Palmer had been in charge at Edgeley Park since November 2001 but won just 25 of his 92 matches at the helm, losing 50 of them.

Chief executive Niels de Vos told the club's official website: "He has pulled together a talented young side of real potential.

"Carlton has presided over a very difficult period at Stockport and in many ways can look back with pride on what he has achieved."

"We simply felt his results record over the last 12 months, allied to just one win in eight league games this season, meant perhaps he has taken this team as far as he could.

"We believe a new management style is required to build on his achievements and to turn potential into regular winning performances."

Palmer said: "I'm obviously disappointed. It's more to do with politics than football, but I don't want to elaborate.

"Over the last five matches we've won one, drawn three and lost one so on that basis every manager in the First, Second and Third Division should get the sack.

"But I've built up a very good young side and the supporters and staff at the club have been fantastic.

"We've come on leaps and bounds and the club is in a much better state than when I arrived a couple of years ago.

"I'm a proud person and I think I have done good things for the club."

Director of football John Hollins has been put in charge for the home clash with Blackpool on Saturday.

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