That’s it. He reached the end of his tether, and seemed to still manage to ride it out for nearly another two weeks.
Phil Parkinson has resigned from his role as Bolton manager, with Steve Parkin following him. Although a club spokesman confirmed receipt of the resignations to the Bolton News, they’ve still to put out a statement on the club website.
It seems the decision to leave was made two weeks ago, after Laurence Bassini’s injunction proved to be the straw that broke the camel’s back. Parkinson would remain in charge for three more games, the home draw against Coventry, then defeats at Rochdale and Tranmere.
It’s a surprise Parkinson kept it together for as long as he did – he stayed in situ over the summer when many managers would have walked, and his shots fired at anyone and everyone involved in this protracted takeover saga in the last fortnight have been very welcome. Surely as soon as a good League One job comes, it’s his for the taking.
He leaves Wanderers having won a promotion, and overseeing a two year spell in the Championship – in that time he spent fees on just two players – Josh Magennis and Remi Matthews.
Particularly, the period from October last year to the end of last season did tarnish his legacy a tad, but overall he has been a good manager for the club, even though many will criticise his negativity. and he has carried himself with class in recent times. He is the first manager to not be sacked by Wanderers since Sam Allardyce.
Thanks Phil, and good luck whatever you do next.