Gary Bowyer has expressed his sadness at not getting the chance to manage Dundee in the Scottish Premiership after his departure from Dens Park on Wednesday. The former Blackburn and Salford City boss had been linked with a return to Blackpool after taking charge last June and leading the team to the Championship title in the final match last Friday.
Bowyer said, “I have loved my time at Dundee and was excited at the prospect of breaking into the top six. I am saddened and disappointed not to have the chance to lead the team in the Scottish Premiership next season. Winning the Championship last Friday was an incredible night and to also be named Championship manager of the season was very humbling. I undoubtedly share both achievements with my staff and players who worked hard and showed great skill and determination to achieve promotion at the first time of asking. Thank you for the memories, it’s been an unbelievable season. C’mon the Dee.”
Bowyer thanked chairman Tim Keyes and paid tribute to the supporters. Dundee said on Wednesday they were “grateful” but that “now is the time for certainty as we enter a critical summer”. Managing director John Nelms said, “Given the importance of the weeks and months ahead, I felt it was necessary to ensure we are all aligned on the direction needed to ensure the club is ready for its return to the Premiership.”
Former Scotland manager Gordon Strachan – Dundee’s technical director – will lead the search for a replacement, with former St Johnstone manager Callum Davidson among those rumoured to be in contention. Bowyer won 17 of his 36 league games in charge and Dundee ultimately won the title by five points after beating nearest rivals Queen’s Park 5-3.
Gary Bowyer has expressed his sadness at not getting the chance to manage Dundee in the Scottish Premiership after his departure from Dens Park on Wednesday. The former Blackburn and Salford City boss had been linked with a return to Blackpool after taking charge last June and leading the team to the Championship title in the final match last Friday.
Bowyer said, “I have loved my time at Dundee and was excited at the prospect of breaking into the top six. I am saddened and disappointed not to have the chance to lead the team in the Scottish Premiership next season. Winning the Championship last Friday was an incredible night and to also be named Championship manager of the season was very humbling. I undoubtedly share both achievements with my staff and players who worked hard and showed great skill and determination to achieve promotion at the first time of asking. Thank you for the memories, it’s been an unbelievable season. C’mon the Dee.”
Bowyer thanked chairman Tim Keyes and paid tribute to the supporters for their support throughout his time at Dundee. The club said on Wednesday they were “grateful” but that “now is the time for certainty as we enter a critical summer”. Managing director John Nelms said, “Given the importance of the weeks and months ahead, I felt it was necessary to ensure we are all aligned on the direction needed to ensure the club is ready for its return to the Premiership.”
Former Scotland manager Gordon Strachan – Dundee’s technical director – will lead the search for a replacement, with former St Johnstone manager Callum Davidson among those rumoured to be in contention. Bowyer won 17 of his 36 league games in charge and Dundee ultimately won the title by five points after beating nearest rivals Queen’s Park 5-3 in a thrilling finale.