Dundee sack manager Tony Docherty after avoiding risk of relegation on final day

Dundee have sacked manager Tony Docherty and his backroom staff after the conclusion of a season that has “not met the standards expected by the club”.

The 54-year-old was appointed by the Dark Blues two years ago having previously spent the majority of his coaching career as an assistant to Derek McInnes.

In his first season as a manager, he led Dundee to a rare top-six finish, but the campaign just finished has been more of a struggle, with a victory away to St Johnstone on the last day required to stave off the threat of being involved in a relegation play-off.

Coaches Stuart Taylor, Alan Combe and Graeme Henderson have also been relieved of their duties.

“Sunday’s result confirmed the club’s place in the Scottish Premiership for next season,” read a Dundee statement on Monday morning. “However, this season the results of the team have not met the standards expected by the club.

“With the club finishing the season in 10th position, one place above the relegation play-off position, the club have taken the decision to relieve Tony of his duties.

“The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Tony, Stuart, Alan and Graeme for all of the work they have put into the club during their time at Dundee FC. We wish them all the best for the future.

“The club intends at this juncture to restructure the football department and the process to appoint a new management team begins immediately.”