Manager Doolan sacked by Partick Thistle

Kris Doolan's two-year spell as Partick Thistle manager has come to an end

Manager Kris Doolan has left Partick Thistle after two years in charge, the Scottish Championship club have announced.

The Jags sit fourth in their division and have lost three of their past four fixtures.

Men's team forward and women's team manager Brian Graham and Mark Wilson will oversee preparations for Saturday's home game with Airdrieonians.

Former Firhill striker Doolan's last game in charge was Saturday's 3-0 defeat by fifth-placed Raith Rovers at Stark's Park, which reduced the gap between the two sides to six points and Raith have two games in hand. Livingston, with one game in hand, are 10 points ahead of Partick.

Thistle also confirmed Doolan's assistant, Paul McDonald, had exited.

"This decision was not taken lightly," said the club in a statement. "Kris is a club legend, revered for his years as a prolific goal-scorer and, more recently, for leading the team through two exciting play-off campaigns as manager.

"Under his leadership, Thistle secured a play-off place in his first season and came agonisingly close to becoming the first club to achieve promotion to the Premiership from fourth place in the Championship. Last season, The Jags improved to third, once again qualifying for the play-offs."

Chairman Richard Beastall added parting with Doolan was a "difficult decision".

"This was not an easy choice," said Beastall.

"On behalf of everyone at the club, we thank Kris for his dedication and wish him the very best for the future. He will always be welcome at Firhill."