Stockport are currently bottom of League One

The League One side are four points adrift at the bottom of the table and have won just twice in the league.

Former Northern Ireland coach McIlroy took over at Edgeley Park from Carlton Palmer in October 2003 and guided the Hatters clear of the relegation zone.

But they recorded just 14 wins in 58 matches under him and the 3-1 defeat at Doncaster proved to be the last straw.

"I am very disappointed to be leaving Stockport as I have put everything into trying to turn the club around," said McIlroy.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank my players and staff, and also to thank the fans whose support has been fantastic.

"Stockport County is a good club that deserves to succeed and I wish them all the very best in the future."

Dignified

Stockport's managing director Kevan Taylor praised McIlroy for helping County beat the drop, but said the failure to build on that had put pressure on the club.

He said: "On behalf of the board I'd like to pay tribute to Sammy for the always dignified way he's conducted himself, and for the unwavering passion he always showed as he strove to better this club both on and off the field."

McIlroy, 50, started his managerial career with Northwich Victoria and then Macclesfield, where he won two promotions, before spending just over three years with Northern Ireland.

The Hatters have yet to announce who will take charge for the home game with Walsall on Saturday.