Ray Ranson, Coventry City’s chairman, sacked Iain Dowie’s because of his “old-fashioned” methods.

Although Dowie led Coventry to success in cup competitions this season, they have won only one league match this year and are teetering just four points above the Coca-Cola Championship’s relegation zone, in 19th place. Ranson, who took over as chairman in December last year, did not foresee an improvement under Dowie.

“In the transfer window, we spent over £1million securing the services of two of the best young players outside the Premiership in Scott Dann and Danny Fox. During this time, I spoke with Iain Dowie on a regular basis on all aspects relating to football matters,” said Ranson.

“As is sometimes the case, we did not share the same ideals for the club and I felt that to move Coventry City forward towards a more progressive and modern way of operating, I would need a different style of first-team management here.”

Ranson has vowed to dedicate his “complete attention” to the search for Dowie’s successor.

“I have set no timescales to deliver the right manager or coach, but rest assured that I will be exploring every opportunity to ensure Coventry City can progress and deliver stability both on the pitch as well as off it,” he added.