Paul Dickov has high hopes of appointing a new right-hand man next week after the recent sacking of three of the Athletic backroom staff. Assistant Gerry Taggart, sports-science man Paul Butler and first-team coach Lee Duxbury have all been relieved of their duties following the home loss against Crewe Alexandra. In the wake of the 'gardening leave' expulsions, youth team chief Tony Philliskirk and centre of excellence manager Mick Priest moved up to take coaching positions in the game at Scunthorpe United. Goalkeeping coach Paul Gerrard also remains and is currently assisting the manager with his duties.
Dickov commented, “I think we have got to draw a line under it. The club has made the statement and we have to move on. We have a few days before the Nottingham Forest game and a week after that. I would like to think that by the Brentford game, somebody will be in — but as I said, I have not had time to think about it.”
“Dux has been at the club a long time and I’ve worked with him every day for the last two-and-a-half years. Gerry and Paul Butler are some of my best friends. They have taken it well and understand that that is football. They don’t hold any grudges against the club and in fact, went round the club and thanked everyone for the last two and a half years — which after what’s happened shows a lot of integrity.”