Joey Barton departs Fleetwood Town in big shake-up to coaching structure

Joey Barton has vacated his role as manager of Fleetwood Town after two and a half years in charge, with the club tenth in League One.

Director of football Eddy Jennings and first-team coaches Clint Hill and Andy Mangan have also followed Barton in departing the Fishermen.

Youth team coach Simon Wiles has been named as interim manager by the club.

Fleetwood chairman Andy Pilley in the wake of Barton’s dismissal, in a club statement has expressed how difficult the decision to part with Barton was, and how he believes that Barton has been a credit to the club despite his controversial moments during his tenure.

“I’d like to put on record my thanks to Joey Barton for job he’s done during his time at Fleetwood Town,” said Pilley.

“Joey has been a pleasure to have at the club and I’m sure he will go onto have a hugely successful career.

“Today’s decision was a tough one for me to make, but I felt now was the right time for the club to go in a different direction.

The highlight of Barton’s two and a half years at The Cod Army was a sixth-placed finish during the 19/20 season, ultimately losing in the playoff semi-finals 6-3 on aggregate, to eventual promotion-winners Wycombe Wanderers.

Former England international Barton’s time at the Highbury Stadium, much like his playing career has not been without controversy. He currently has a trial pending for June 2021 over an alleged clash with then Barnsley boss Daniel Stendel in April 2019.

And during the past month, Barton had spoken on disciplinary issues he has had with striker Ched Evans.

“He’s no longer with us and he’ll leave the building due to his discipline and his behaviour,” said Barton.

“There’s been multiple infractions and we always try to give a bit of leeway but it’s just run its course.”

Fleetwood’s next two fixtures against Ipswich and Sunderland, have been postponed due to positive coronavirus cases at the club.