Paatelainen leaves Hibs - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Paatelainen leaves Hibs

Mixu Paatelainen has resigned as manager of Hibernian, the club have confirmed on their website.

Paatelainen announced his decision to step down in a statement on the website, www.hibernianfc.co.uk, saying: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as manager of Hibernian Football Club. We have travelled a journey together and the club will always hold a special place in my heart.

"However, there comes a time when a change of direction is best for both parties."

He added: "I thank the club and the players and coaching staff for their commitment and talent and I wish the supporters everything that they would wish themselves."

Chairman Rod Petrie added: "Mixu has been a whole-hearted and committed manager and we are all sorry to see him go.

"However, we respect his decision. Mixu is held in the highest regard by everyone connected with the club and we wish him well for the future."

Paatelainen took over at Easter Road in January 2008 after management spells at Cowdenbeath and TPS Turku in his native Finland.

As a former Hibs player, his appointment was warmly welcomed but he was disappointed with their sixth-placed finish in the Scottish Premier League.

They finished the 2008/09 season with a win at city rivals Hearts and draws against both Rangers and Celtic.

However, a final-day defeat at Aberdeen consigned Hibs to sixth place which meant they missed out on a Europa League spot.

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