McLeish walks away from Forest job

7Feb 2013

England - The Championship

Nottingham Forest manager Alex McLeish has left the club by mutual consent after just six weeks in charge, amid rumours of a fallout with chairman Fawaz Al Hasawi.

The former Birmingham and Aston Villa manager, who was appointed on December 28, said "a difference of understanding of the development strategy" at the club was behind his exit.

In a statement on the Forest website, Al Hasawi said: "I'm bitterly disappointed - as is Alex - it has not worked out. I would like to put on record my thanks for his services and wish him every success in the future."

The Scot was to thought to be angered by the club's failure to sign players during the January transfer window.

On deadline day, Forest were criticised by Peterborough for pulling out of a deal to sign George Boyd at the last minute, citing eyesight issues with the player. Posh's director of football, Barry Fry, described the Al Hasawi family as "a disgrace to the game".

McLeish, who lost five of his seven matches in charge, winning one, said: "I am extremely saddened to be leaving after such a short period but even so it has been a privilege to be manager of such a fantastic football club and I want to thank the players, staff and fans for their support and wish Nottingham Forest the best of fortunes ahead.

"Both parties entered into the relationship in good faith, however, there was a difference in the understanding of the development strategy of the football club and it was felt by both parties that we should part company."

Forest currently sit 11th in the Championship table, six points off a play-off spot. They are trading at 5.7 to make the top six and 17.0 to get promotion.