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Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday's fellow Championship strugglers Swansea City have axed Alan Sheehan as their head coach.
He was given the job on the back of a promising spell as caretaker boss in the wake of Luke Williams’ departure.
However, after overseeing just four wins in 15 league games, Sheehan has been shown the door by the Welsh club.
Alan Sheehan's Swansea City reign has been brought to an abrupt end.placeholder image
Alan Sheehan's Swansea City reign has been brought to an abrupt end. | Ryan Hiscott/Getty Images
Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday are among the clubs below 18th-placed Swansea in the table and will undoubtedly be keeping an eye on developments.
If the Swans do not get their next appointment right, they could find themselves in a tense battle for survival with the Blades and Owls.
Swansea City confirm change
A statement issued by Swansea read: “Swansea City can confirm the club has parted ways with head coach Alan Sheehan.
“The 39-year-old was appointed as full-time head coach in April following two highly-impressive stints in interim charge of the Swans.
“Alan initially took over in December 2023, overseeing seven games with a win percentage of 42.86 per cent.
“His second spell in charge saw him record a win percentage of 58.3 per cent from 13 games, including a run of five wins in a row.
“However, in the wake of a disappointing run, it is felt results and performances do not meet the standards expected at this stage of the season, and we have had to take this difficult decision.
“The process to appoint a new head coach is already underway. We will update supporters on this process once it has been concluded.”
Alan Sheehan represented Leeds United in his playing days.placeholder image
Alan Sheehan represented Leeds United in his playing days. | Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Alan Sheehan’s career path
A left-back before moving into coaching, Sheehan joined Leeds on loan from Leicester City in 2008. His move was later made permanent and he racked up a total of 24 appearances for the Whites.
He returned to Yorkshire in 2014, making 32 appearances across two years for Bradford.
The former Republic of Ireland youth international brought the curtain down on his playing career in 2022 after a spell at Oldham Athletic.
He first arrived at Swansea in 2023, initially as an assistant to Michael Duff alongside Martin Paterson.