Bradford City sack Mark Hughes after 20 months in charge

The Welshman and assistant Glyn Hodges have been dismissed after 587 days in charge – the longest of any manager at the club since Stuart McCall’s second spell.

The Bantams made the decision following last night’s defeat at Tranmere.

It was Hughes’ 70th league game in charge - winning 28 with 23 draws and 19 losses.

City chief executive Ryan Sparks said: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mark and Glyn for their efforts and services to our football club over the past 19 months.

“They made a great impact when they arrived at the club, both on and off the field, and last season came close to delivering on our aims.

“Unfortunately, since our defeat at Carlisle in the play-off semi-final, results have been disappointing, and after 11 league games we find ourselves a long way away from where we expect to be.

“As a result, the decision has been taken to move in a different direction in an effort to get our season on track.

READ MORE: All the facts and figures from Mark Hughes' reign

“On a personal level, I have very much enjoyed working alongside Mark and Glyn, and we go our separate ways on good terms.

“I would ask supporters to join me in wishing both them and their families the very best for the future, while reflecting on some of the memorable moments they brought us.”

Kevin McDonald will take temporary charge and be assisted by Mark Trueman.

The experienced midfielder has previously coached at Fulham in the under-18s and under-21s and City believe he will command the immediate respect of the dressing room in a joint player/caretaker manager role as they try to find some momentum after a stuttering season so far.

Kevin McDonald in action against Tranmere last night (Image: Thomas Gadd)

The club confirmed they have already begun the process to appoint a permanent successor.

The 2-1 loss to a Tranmere side, who had been second from bottom ahead of kick-off, leaves City in 18th spot on 13 points.

They are currently six points from both the play-offs and the relegation zone.

Speaking after the game, Hughes had been confident of remaining in charge to help results pick up. He called for “people to keep their nerve” to get through the sticky spell.

But the club hierarchy felt that action needed to be taken after the latest loss once again finished with jeers and abuse from fans.