Coyle leaves Blackburn after Manchester United defeat

Owen Coyle has parted company with Blackburn following the struggling Championship side’s FA Cup exit to Manchester United.

Coyle, 50, joined Rover last summer after leaving the United States – where he managed Houston Dynamo for two years before leaving the club by mutual consent in May.

The former Wigan and Bolton boss made his mark in England with Burnley in 2009 – leading the Clarets to promotion before later joining Wanderers.

But after being unable to replicate that success, he was sacked by Blackburn – despite making it to the FA Cup fifth round.

[READ MORE: Manchester United beat Blackburn to set up Chelsea tie]

He leaves with Rovers in the Championship drop zone with 15 games remaining.

A club statement read: “Blackburn Rovers wish to announce that manager Owen Coyle has left his role at Ewood Park by mutual agreement.

“Assistant manager Sandy Stewart, first team coach John Henry and goalkeeping coach Phil Hughes have also left the club.

“The decision has been taken in order to give the club the best possible chance of climbing to a position of safety in the Championship in the remaining 15 games, which starts with the big trip to Burton Albion on Friday night.

“The club would like to place on record its thanks to Owen and his staff for all their efforts this season and we wish them well for the future.

“The search for a new manager will begin with immediate effect.

“No further comments will be made at this stage.”