League Two: Nigel Worthington resigns as manager of York City
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Nigel Worthington has resigned as the manager of League Two side York City after a bad run of form.
The Minstermen have won just once all season in the league, and their 3-1 defeat to Newport at the weekend was what turned out to be Worthington's last in charge.
He joined the club in March 2013, midway through their first season back in the Football League, and managed to keep them their by the end of it.
Last season a late surge of 17 games unbeaten gave them a chance to win promotion to League One via the play-offs. However, they lost to Fleetwood, who went on to gain promotion, beating Southend in the final.
In a statement on the club's website, Worthington said, "After Saturday's result and in the best interests of York City, I have made the difficult decision to leave the club with immediate effect."
"I feel the timing of my departure will give the players ample number of games to gain the points needed to ensure York City finishes in a good position in League Two by the end of the season."
"In recent weeks, performances have not been up to my high standards and I take full responsibility for this as manager."
"I have enjoyed a wonderful time at York City over the past 18 months. The fans have been fantastic throughout and I have appreciated all their support.
He also thanked his backroom staff, and in particular Steve Torpey, who will take over as caretaker whilst a permanent replacement is found.
"The experience would not have been the same without the friendship of all the staff at the club. In particular, I would like to thank my assistant, Steve Torpey, for his loyalty and dedication to me and York City Football Club."
The club's board also released a statement, which read "It is with great sadness that Nigel Worthington has decided to leave the club."
"He has been a pleasure to work with and we could not have asked for a more professional and hard working manager. We will always be grateful to him for the huge contribution he made in maintaining our Football League status and for the great times we had reaching the Play-offs last season."
"We respect the decision he has taken and understand it has been made in the best interests of York City Football Club."
"We thank Nigel for all he has achieved in making York City a better football club and the legacy he leaves. He has been a gentleman throughout his time at the club and will be missed by us all."