Livingston dismiss manager Whelan after nine games

Livingston have sacked Glenn Whelan after just nine games, with David Martindale returning to the head coach position on a temporary basis.

Former Republic of Ireland international Whelan, 42, was appointed in May following the West Lothian club’s relegation from the Scottish Premiership.

He leaves with Livingston fifth in the Scottish Championship after two wins and three defeats.

There were two wins two draws in the Premier Sports Cup.

On announcing the end of Whelan’s brief reign, Calvin Ford, the West Lothian club’s American owner and chairman said: “Our net will be cast far wider than it was in our previous search, and the focus of the search will be via data analytics.

“Mediocrity is not an acceptable solution, and we will continue to work to find the leader that delivers on the ambitions and aspirations of sustained, high-level success that we expect at Livingston.”

Frankie McAvoy will join Martindale as an interim coach, with the duo assisted by Grant Murray and Brian Potter.

Martindale ended his six-year stint as manager in January, moving into a sporting director role, while Marvin Bartley stepped down after relegation was confirmed and a dismal top flight campaign ended with Scott Arfield as player-boss for the last three games.

Bartley’s Stenhousemuir were 1-0 winners away to Livingston on Friday.

“Davie’s past success and proven track record in the Scottish Championship made this decision easy, and we look forward to refocusing and finding success on the pitch while he holds this position,” added Ford.