Torquay United manager Gary Johnson leaves*

Manager Gary Johnson has left Torquay United ‘by mutual consent’ on the most dramatic of days for the club in recent history.
This afternoon, owner Clarke Osborne said he was stepping down as chairman and putting the club into administration – with that alone signalling massive change for the club, before this latest development.

But at tea-time this evening another statement appeared on the club’s website saying Johnson was quitting his role as manager after three and a half years This afternoon, Johnson held his usual press conference – and was keen to talk about the future, so obviously knew nothing about Osborne’s plans.

But after Osborne’s announcement, there were obviously talks and Johnson could not be contacted by representatives of the Herald Express or Devon Live. A statement on the club’s website appeared just before 6pm saying, following discussions between both parties earlier today, Johnson’s departure as United manager was agreed by mutual consent.

Johnson was quoted as saying: “After discussions today with the football club, we have mutually agreed that I should leave Torquay United with immediate effect.

“I have enjoyed most of my five and a half year tenure, but given the current situation, both parties agreed to part ways. I thank the players, the football staff, the office staff, as well as the chairman and directors for their support over this time. I wish the Club all the best for the future.”