Spartans terminate Cassidy's contract

Blyth Spartans have sacked manager Tommy Cassidy after terminating his contract at Croft Park.

Tuesday's surprise news was announced before lunchtime via the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division club's official Twitter feed.

The former Newcastle United and Northern Ireland midfielder joined Blyth in 2011 and a statement on the club's official website said: "After a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Club on Monday evening it was unanimously decided to terminate the contract of manager Tommy Cassidy.

"Mr Cassidy was informed of the decision at the Club on Tuesday morning. The Club would like to thank Mr Cassidy for his work whilst at the Club."

Spartans say Chairman Tony Platten has spoken to coach Paddy Atkinson and club captain Wayne Buchanan about the dismissal of Cassidy and further discussions are planned with the pair at Tuesday night training which will go ahead as planned.

The chairman also assured supporters that 'every effort will be made to keep them up to date with any developments' and said that further statements will be issued in due course.

The Spartans currently lie in 11th spot in the league after four wins, a draw and three defeats from their opening eight league games. Blyth were knocked out of the FA Cup and FA Trophy last week.