Championship boss makes ‘best decision’ to leave his role ahead of games against Birmingham City and West Brom

Mick McCarthy has left Blackpool by mutual consent ahead of games with Birmingham City and West Brom later this month.

A 3-1 loss to Cardiff City on Good Friday left the Tangerines seven points adrift of safety, and second bottom in the Championship table.

Stephen Dobbie has been appointed as head coach until the end of the season, and will take charge when West Brom travel to Bloomfield Road on April 18.

He will again be in the dugout when Birmingham City play host to Blackpool four days later.

A club statement confirmed: “Blackpool Football Club can confirm Mick McCarthy and Terry Connor have both left the Club by mutual consent.

“With results on the pitch not improving in recent weeks, the decision has been agreed by both parties that a change is needed.”

It added: “The Club would like to thank both Mick and Terry for their efforts and wish them well for the future.

“Senior Professional Development Lead Phase Coach Stephen Dobbie will now take charge of the first-team for the remainder of the season, assisted by Matt Blinkhorn and Steve Banks.”

Mick McCarthy said: “After recent performances and results, I have thought long and hard and feel this is the best decision for everyone concerned with the football club.

“I’ve loved my time here and thank everyone for their support. I wish everyone well going forward.”

McCarthy managed just two wins from 14 games in charge at Blackpool, along with three draws. However, nine defeats in that run has proven costly to the club’s survival hopes with just six games left to overturn a seven-point gap to 21st place and safety.