Barnsley have parted ways with manager Neill Collins, only 11 days before the League One play-offs begin.
The Tykes are now fifth in the table, but are in severe risk of falling out of the top six due to a poor run of results.
The former Premier League club has lost four of its six league games this month, beating relegation candidates Burton 3-1 in the process. Before that streak, they lost 5-1 at home to Lincoln.
That’s despite them earlier being within striking distance of the automatic promotion spots.
The statement, issued on Monday afternoon, read: “Barnsley Football Club can confirm the departure of Head Coach Neill Collins.”
“Collins was appointed last summer, and despite some positive periods throughout the season, recent results have led the board of directors to believe that a change is necessary.
Director of Football Mladen Sormaz stated, “Neill has been exceedingly professional throughout the time I have worked with him; he has done everything he can to drive the team in the direction we all want Barnsley to go.
“Throughout my time working with him, he has demonstrated professionalism and commitment. However, with a key season finale ahead of us, we believe now is the moment to make a change.
“We thank the fans for their continuous support and encourage everyone to support the team this Saturday against Northampton. We will notify supporters in the coming days.
“We’d want to thank Neill for his efforts while at the club. Martin Devaney will take over in the interim period.”
Collins joined Barnsley at the start of the season, signing a two-year contract.
To remain in contention for promotion back to the Championship at the second attempt, the Tykes must defeat Northampton at Oakwell on Saturday.
Otherwise, Lincoln, who are sixth in the final play-off slot, might be overtaken this weekend by Oxford, seventh in the league, and Blackpool, ninth.
The Tykes have been in the play-off spots for the entirety of the season, and they look to have thrown in the towel by sacking Collins in an attempt to keep their promotion hopes alive.
If they make the play-offs and advance to the final, they will do it for the second year in a row.
Last season, Barnsley almost missed out on promotion to local rivals Sheffield Wednesday, who won 1-0 in extra time at Wembley.
This season’s first semi-final matchup will take place on Friday, May 3.
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