Kinnear leaves Forest

Joe Kinnear today resigned as manager of relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest.

Kinnear took over at the City Ground in February and steered them clear of relegation from the Championshop last season. But they have won just four of their 23 league games this season and are two points adrift of safety.

Kinnear said: "I feel that it is in the best interests of the club that I resign and give my successor the chance to turn things around."

He added: "I was brought in last season to save the club from relegation, which I did, but the time is right to give someone else a chance.

" I ' ve no regrets about joining Forest, it's the best club I've had the privilege to manage. "I've had the whole-hearted backing of the chairman and my staff and marvellous backing from the fans.

"Unfortunately, things have conspired against us this season. We have had horrendous injuries and I haven't been able to put out my strongest team or even a settled side.

"I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone connected with the club all the very best for the future.

"I sincerely hope to see Nottingham Forest playing their football in the Championship next season."