graham roberts

[Guest]

Clyde have sacked manager Graham Roberts, terminating the former Rangers defender's contract on the grounds of gross misconduct.

Roberts' former assistant, Joe Miller, will continue to lead the team.

For legal reasons, the First Division club are not commenting further on the decision to remove Roberts.

But the move follows a long investigation into Roberts' behaviour on a post-season tour and allegations of racist and anti-semitic comments.

Roberts had been placed on leave while Clyde's probe dragged on during the summer and into the first weeks of the season.

But Clyde have now announced that: "Following upon a full and comprehensive investigation of allegations made against the team manager, Graham Roberts, arising from events during the team's close season tour in Canada, the board have upheld the decision to terminate the contract of Graham Roberts as team manager for gross misconduct.

"For legal reasons, no further comment on the matter will be made by the board.

"The board wish to thank all Clyde supporters for their patience and understanding during this process.

"It has been a long and thorough investigation and one where the legal advice was to make no comment at any time.

"This was done with the sole intention of protecting our club and in no way reflects a lack of respect for our fans, nor a policy of non-communication.

"We would now ask our supporters to get behind our young team and help them and Joe Miller move forward from what has been a rather unpleasant and discouraging experience for all of us."

Former Ibrox defender Roberts and ex-Celtic forward Miller took charge a year ago, when they had only three signed players and had to rebuild with those freed from other clubs.

Clyde finished fifth in the First Division and recorded a famous victory over Celtic in the Scottish Cup.

But Miller vowed never to work with Roberts again after claim and counter claim resulting from the trip to Canada.

And, while Roberts was on leave, Miller was installed as caretaker and extended his own playing contract.

Miller, who is expected to be confirmed as permanent manager, told BBC Sport: "It has sickened me, but these are the politics and things that go on in the game.

"I came back and had to be the old head in the place and keep them focused on the season ahead.

"I've just tried to look after myself and keep my own counsel."

Clyde have been virtually inactive in the transfer market during the summer and have suffered three straight defeats after an opening-day draw away to St Johnstone.