Birmingham City have set their sights on MK Dons manager Karl Robinson, after ending Lee Clark’s reign in charge of first team affairs.
Former Huddersfield Town boss Clark was appointed Blues boss in June 2012 after Chris Hughton left for Norwich City, but struggled to make an impact as the Midlands giants settled for a disappointing 12th place finish in the Championship. Last season was even worse, as they avoided relegation to League One by only on the final day of the campaign courtesy of an injury-time equaliser.
Despite this Clark was given more time to turn things around at St Andrews’, but the board have finally run out of patience in the wake of Saturday’s 1-0 home defeat to fellow strugglers Bolton Wanderers. This loss was their fifth in 12 matches, and leaves them fourth-bottom of the standings and just a point above the relegation zone. And the 41-year-old has now paid the price for such poor statistics.
“The search for a successor has already begun and the board will look to make an appointment in the very near future,” read a statement on the club’s official website which confirmed their decision to sack Clark and his assistant. “The club wishes to place on record its sincere thanks to Lee Clark and Steve Watson for their combined efforts over a period stretching back to June 2012.”
First team coach Richard Beale and chief scout Malcolm Crosby have been placed in caretaker charge, starting with the trip to Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday night. In regards to a permanent appointment, Sky Sports are reporting that MK Dons boss Robinson has emerged as their main target. The 34-year-old has impressed during the four years he has been at the helm of his current club, and this season led them to a memorable 4-0 win over Premier League giants Manchester United in the League Cup.
Would Robinson be a good choice for the Blues, or are there any fans who feel Clark should have been given more time at the helm? Let us know what you think by joining the discussion below.
