PAUL Lambert has left his position as manager of relegated Stoke City by "mutual consent".
Former Celtic player Lambert, 48, replaced Mark Hughes in January on a two-and-a-half-year contract with the club 18th in the Premier League table.
However, results failed to improve under Lambert, with Stoke winning just two of his 15 matches in charge. The club finished 19th, confirming relegation to the Championship.
Stoke City said in a statement: “The club would like to thank Paul for his work over the past four months and wish him well for the future.
“Whilst he was unable to guide us to Premier League safety after being appointed in January, it certainly wasn’t due to a lack of effort, professionalism and dedication on his part.
“Paul would like to thank the board, players and staff for the opportunity and their support. He would also like to thank the fans for their unwavering support. Whilst looking forward to his next challenge, he would like to wish the club every success next season.
“The club will appoint a replacement as soon as possible in order to give the new manager time to prepare for the challenge of the 2018/19 season in the Championship.”
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