Coventry confirm Sunderland plan after shock Mark Robins decision

COVENTRY City have confirmed the appointment of Rhys Carr as interim head coach after the surprise sacking of Mark Robins.

Carr, who will be supported by the club's existing first team coaching staff, will take charge of the Sky Blues against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

Robins, who was the Championship's longest serving manager, was sacked this morning after Coventry's home defeat to Derby County last night. The decision comes just over 48 hours before City play Sunderland on Wearside.

Robins oversaw the remarkable resurrection of Coventry in his seven years in charge, leading City from League Two to the Championship play-off final and an FA Cup semi-final.

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A Coventry City statement says: "Mark masterminded and built several team over that time that outperformed their budget, outperformed their infrastructure and brought back a playing style, credibility and belief to our city that had been lost and eroded over many years.

"These achievements will never be forgotten by those who witnessed such deeds and the broader community that once again began to rekindle their affection for our club.

"There is no doubt that Coventry City today would not be where it is today without the inspired actions of Mark and his team.

"The club is well aware that this is a difficult moment after over seven very successful years at the helm and this decision is not taken lightly.

The performance of the team over an extended period however have just not been good enough and as such the board of the club has decided to make an immediate change in leadership.

"The club will take its time to appoint a successor to Mark, although the position will be that of head coach working within the new structure set up by the club over the last two years.

"The club will shortly appoint an ‘interim head coach’ who will take charge of the team against Sunderland on Saturday."

The statement added: "Mark’s achievements at the Sky Blues, often against a backdrop of uncertainty and financial restrictions, will see him remembered and lauded as one of the club’s greatest ever managers, who was able to galvanise players, staff, fans and the club as a whole to incredible feats.

"We all wish Mark the best of luck for the future."