Simpson arrived last summer following the departure of Gary Ablett

Stockport County have sacked their manager Paul Simpson after less than six months in charge.

A statement on the League Two club's website said: "In view of the run of just three wins in 19 games, it has been decided a change is necessary.

"This is a very important time, with our league status the main priority."

Simpson's assistant Peter Ward has been named caretaker manager, with the club lying 21st in League Two, four points above the relegation zone.

The club thanked Simpson for his efforts, but said it had been decided that "the best way forward was to agree to make a change now".

606: DEBATE I will name my first born child Jim Gannon if he returns. Even if it's a girl. stockportcountry

Former Carlisle and Shrewsbury manager Simpson arrived at Edgeley Park in July last year, after the Hatters were relegated from League One and Gary Ablett departed as boss.

Upon his appointment, the 44-year-old hailed the prospect of a new era at Stockport, following the takeover earlier that year by the 2015 Group after a period in administration, but he has been candid in recent weeks in warning that the club faced a relegation fight.

The club statement also said that following discussions between the board and Ward, "supporters can look forward to four or five new players arriving in January".

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version