Neil bears no Norwich grudge as he looks to future

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Alex Neil: Looking to the future after Norwich axe

Alex Neil: Looking to the future after Norwich axe

Alex Neil bears no grudge towards Norwich after his dismissal last week and is looking forward to his next managerial challenge.

Neil, 35, was sacked on Friday “in the best interests of the club” after a run of one win in seven league games had left the Canaries nine points adrift of the play-off places.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to have had the opportunity to manage Norwich City Football Club,” Neil said in a statement released by the League Managers’ Association.

“Naturally, I feel very disappointed to have lost my job. This current season has been one of transition, with the club adjusting to the consequences of relegation from the Premier League, as well as two chief executives moving on in a short space of time.

“I have worked with some great people at the club and have shared some fantastic memories with them.

“I will always be very proud of our achievement of winning promotion, via the play-offs at Wembley, and of having the opportunity to manage Norwich in the Premier League.

“I would like to thank my coaching staff for their hard work and loyalty and all the players and the staff throughout the club for their efforts on and off the pitch.

“My thanks also go to club owners, Delia and Michael, for giving me the opportunity to manage Norwich City.

“I wish them every success for the future and hope that the club goes on to achieve the ambitions that the dedicated city and fans deserve.

“The experience I have gained at Norwich City will be invaluable to me and I look forward to my next challenge in the game.”

First-team coach Alan Irvine has been placed in temporary charge but ruled himself out of the permanent job after Saturday’s 2-2 home draw against Blackburn.

Ex-Birmingham boss Gary Rowett has been linked with the vacancy, while BBC Radio Norfolk has reported former Crystal Palace and Newcastle boss Alan Pardew is not a possible candidate.