Duncan Ferguson has been dismissed as the manager of Inverness Caledonian Thistle amid the club’s ongoing financial turmoil and recent administration. The Highland club is currently battling for its survival following a significant financial crisis that has left it in a precarious position.
In a statement, Ferguson confirmed that he, along with two coaching staff members, had been let go by the club. Meanwhile, other players and staff members are expected to learn about their employment status on Thursday. Administrators BDO have announced they are working diligently to “secure the long-term future” of the club.
In an earlier interview with BBC Scotland News, Ferguson expressed his longstanding opposition to the process of administration. Following his sacking, he reflected on his time at Inverness, stating, “I’ve done the very best I can for my club and for my players. I’ve always tried to support my players behind the scenes and they all know that. And that’s the most important thing for me.”
Ferguson described the administration process as “brutal,” but emphasized that he enjoyed his tenure at the club.
The club’s situation has worsened with a deduction of 15 points due to the administration, placing them at the bottom of League 1 with a current standing of -3 points. No matter what division they compete in next season, they will start with a -5 points penalty.
Reflecting on the club’s prospects, Ferguson remarked, “I think the club can stay in the division if they hold onto their players. If not it’s going to be a tough ask.”
Ferguson joined Inverness last September after the departure of Billy Dodds, when the club was at the bottom of the Championship. Following his appointment, the team was relegated in a play-off against Hamilton Accies.
A former player for Dundee United, Rangers, Everton, and Newcastle United, Ferguson stepped into his first full managerial role at Forest Green Rovers last year.
As administrators search for new ownership to rescue the club, they warn that failure to find a buyer may result in asset sales to settle debts. Investor Alan Savage, a former club chairman, expressed his commitment to helping save the club, telling BBC Scotland News, “I would give it my best shot.”
When asked about his confidence in the club’s future, Savage responded, “Of course I am yeah,” and offered to assist those affected by job losses in the current crisis. Regarding his potential role in the club’s future, he noted, “It’s a step-by-step process and until we’ve gone through those steps it’s a bit early to say.”