Chairman 'astonished' at appeal

NOTTS County chairman Alan Hardy says he is "astonished" that John Sheridan has appealed his dismissal by the League Two club for gross misconduct.

Sheridan was sacked by the Magpies 23 days after he was sent to the stands in a 2-0 defeat at Wycombe. A five-game touchline ban resulted, with a released FA report later detailing industrial language used towards the officials.

Sheridan left Meadow Lane after nine straight league defeats, but Hardy - no relation to the former Athletic chief executive - says the decision to dismiss him was not a result of poor form.

"I am not prepared to tolerate any member of my staff abusing referees and officials in this manner," Hardy said.

"The conduct shown by Mr Sheridan towards the match officials in this instance was nothing short of scandalous. Mr Sheridan and the LMA (League Manager's Association) are effectively trying to run a coach and horses through the concept of respect.

"I was astonished to receive notification from the LMA that Mr Sheridan has decided to appeal his dismissal.

"Mr Sheridan clearly believes this 'industrial language' is used in everyday workplaces. Not in my place of work, it's not. And nor at my football club."

In supporting Sheridan's appeal, the LMA stated: "It would be inappropriate for either party to comment in any detail on this matter publicly whilst there is potential legal action pending, save as to say, that our member disputes that the sole reason for his dismissal was gross misconduct.

"Mr Sheridan was dismissed on 2 January 2017 following a 4-0 defeat and on the back of six straight defeats. Mr Sheridan's dismissal took place 23 days and five games after the incident at Wycombe and four matches into his five-match touchline ban."