Platt sacked by Bannsiders

Platt – who succeeded Marty Quinn in 2008 – was informed of the club's decision following a board meeting.

Inconsistent form has plagued Coleraine's season, with Tuesday night's dismal 3-0 defeat to Dungannon Swifts appearing the final straw for the club's board.

That result leaves the Bannsiders – who play Lisburn Distillery tonight – in 10th spot in the Carling Premiership following only nine wins from 24 games.

The club's website confirmed the dismissal, saying: "Following a meeting of the Coleraine FC board of Directors this evening, David Platt has been relieved of his duties as Coleraine manager with immediate effect.

"A full statement will be released by the club tomorrow."

The move follows Newry City's decision to axe Gerry Flynn on Wednesday night.

City chairman Paul McKenna cited the club's poor results as the reason for Flynn's dismissal.

Robert Casey has stepped into the breach on a temporary basis for the Bordermen, with Bohemians manager Pat Fenlon being linked with the post.

Sacked Flynn is one name being linked with the vacant Coleraine post, along with Bannsiders legend Pat McAllister.

Other names include former Lisburn Distillery boss Paul Kirk and emerging Limavady United manager Oran Kearney.