‘Now is the right time’ – EFL club sack manager and appoint interim boss just days before play-offs

BARNSLEY have sacked head coach Neill Collins just days before the League One Play-Offs.

First team coach Martin Devaney has been appointed as interim manager until the end of the season.

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Neill Collins has been sacked by Barnsley[/caption]

The decision to fire Collins comes despite him guiding the team to the verge of a place in the Play Offs.

Director of Football Mladen Sormaz said: “Neill has been extremely professional throughout the period with which I have worked with him, he has done everything he can do to push the team in the direction we all want Barnsley to go.

“He has conducted himself with professionalism and commitment throughout the period I have worked with him.

“However, with a crucial season conclusion ahead of us, we feel that now is the right time to make a change.

“We thank the fans for their continued support and urge you all to back the team this Saturday against Northampton. We will update supporters in the coming days.”

Barnsley face Northampton Town in their final League One match this Saturday.

Victory for The Tykes will ensure a spot in the Play-off semi-finals.

They are currently fifth in the table, joined in the Play Offs by Bolton Wanderers, Peterborough United and Lincoln City.

However, Oxford United and Blackpool are still pushing for a spot.

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Portsmouth have already earned promotion to the Championship, with Derby County expected to take the second automatic place.

Collins was appointed as Barnsley boss last summer following a spell with USL Championship side Tampa Bay Rowdies.

Barnsley had won just two of their last 12 games prior to his dismissal.