Stephen Robinson quits as Motherwell boss after almost four years

Stephen Robinson has resigned as manager of Motherwell after almost four years in charge at Fir Park.

The Steelmen lost 2-0 to Kilmarnock on Wednesday evening, having not won a match since the end of October.

They are lingering in 10th place in the Premiership, just two points ahead of Hamilton at the foot of the table.

Confirming Robinson’s departure, Motherwell announced Keith Lasley will take interim charge of the first team.

In a statement, the club said: “After Wednesday night’s match with Kilmarnock, Stephen approached the board, giving an honest assessment of the current situation. He then stated his desire to leave.

“It is with regret that the board accepted his resignation, having carefully considered his reasons for wanting to leave his post.

“Despite the current restrictions, the board will now run a thorough process to identify the right person to take the manager’s post.

“This will move at pace, mindful of the busy fixture list and the January transfer window’s impending opening.”

Robinson, who followed Mark McGhee into the job permanently in March 2017, said: “I would like to thank everyone at Motherwell for their support throughout my time here, both as manager and assistant.

“We have qualified for Europe, reached two cup finals and achieved a third-place finish, on top of developing some wonderful players in my time here.

“We cleared the club’s external debt through player sales, cup runs and league positions. The club has numerous assets going forward, and I’m sure that there will have a strong finish to the season with the brilliant coaching staff currently there.

“My goal was always to leave the club in a healthier position. I believe the staff and I have done this.

“I now feel it is the time for someone new to take the club forward as I feel I have taken it as far as I can.”