Shota sacked just hours before Luton clash

SACKED: Shota Arveladze. Picture by Hull City

By Simon Bristow

Shota Arveladze has been sacked as Hull City manager, just hours before the home fixture against Luton Town tonight.

The announcement comes after a dismal run of form that has seen the Tigers slump to 20th in the Championship table, after four consecutive defeats, and also having failed to score since August.

Assistant head coach, Peter van der Veen, also leaves the club with immediate effect, with City stalwart Andy Dawson taking over as interim manager until a permanent appointment is made, the club said in a statement.

“Hull City can confirm we have parted company with head coach Shota Arveladze,” the statement began.

Tigers chairman Acun Ilıcalı said: “During the international break, we had a number of meetings with Shota to discuss the direction of the team and the future of the club. As these meetings went on, it became clear our views weren't aligned so we have made the decision to part ways.

“Shota and Peter leave with our thanks, greatest respect and fond wishes for the future. Our focus is now supporting Andy and the squad and finding the best possible candidate to drive this club forward.”

The statement added: “Everyone at the club would like to thank Shota and Peter for their efforts and wish them both well for the future.” 

Arveladze was appointed in January soon after the Ilıcalı takeover and helped guide the Tigers to Championship safety and a 19th-placed finish in a season of transition at the MKM Stadium. But after a bright start to this campaign, and following a major overhaul of the playing squad during the summer, City’s form and results have not matched the club’s top-flight ambitions.