Soccer

Neil Lennon leaves Hibernian by 'mutual consent'

Neil Lennon has left Hibernian by mutual consent, the Ladbrokes Premiership club has announced
Neil Lennon has left Hibernian by mutual consent, the Ladbrokes Premiership club has announced Neil Lennon has left Hibernian by mutual consent, the Ladbrokes Premiership club has announced

HIBERNIAN have confirmed the departure of manager Neil Lennon and assistant Garry Parker by "mutual consent".

The pair were suspended by the Easter Road hierarchy on Friday and were not in the dugout for the Scottish Premiership victory over St Mirren on Sunday, with Eddie May and Grant Murray taking charge.

An internal review was conducted at the club in wake of their suspension, resulting in the departure of the Lurgan man after two-and-a-half years at the helm, which saw Hibs promoted to the top flight and finish in the top four in their first season back.

However, the departure of key players last summer has seen Hibs struggle this season, leaving them eighth in the table before Lennon was temporarily relieved of his duties, while his public criticism of the players is not believed to have gone down well.

In a statement on the club website, Hibs said: "The management team of Neil Lennon and Garry Parker has left the club by mutual consent.

"They have not been dismissed and have not resigned.

"The suspension, put in place to allow an internal review, was lifted by the club as part of this agreement. Despite widespread speculation, the club confirms that neither Neil nor Garry has been guilty of any misconduct or wrongdoing and no disciplinary process has been commenced.

"However, Neil, Garry and the club now consider that it would be in the best interests of all parties to part amicably.

"The club would like to place on notice its thanks to both Neil and Garry for their hard work and the success they have brought the club."

Lennon added: "I would like to thank the board, the coaching staff, the players and all the fans for making the last two-and-a-half years so enjoyable. It has been my privilege to serve the club and I wish it every success in the future."