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Peter Davidson

Callum Davidson axed by St Johnstone as double Cup winner pays price for rotten run

Callum Davidson has parted company with St Johnstone following the Perth side's 2-0 defeat to Livingston on Saturday.

The double cup winning boss leaves the Saints in ninth place just four points above the relegation play-off place. Assistant Steven MacLean will take charge of the team until a replacement is found. St Johnstone haven't won since February 18 when they defeated Dundee United at Tannadice. The former Saints defender cemented his legendary status at the club when he guided them to League Cup and Scottish Cup glory during the 2020-21 season.

Last season St Johnstone survived the drop after defeating Inverness Caley Thistle in the play-off. A 6-2 aggregate score was enough to keep the Saints in the league for another season. Chairman Steve Brown said: "First and foremost, Callum is a friend and I hold him in high regard which is why this has been an extremely difficult decision to come to. But we had an open and honest conversation and we both agreed that we must do what is right for St Johnstone. We must always put our Football Club first.

Callum Davidson (SNS Group)

"Callum has been a brilliant manager for St Johnstone and led us to that Cup Double in 2021 and then European football. But we feel results haven't been good enough in recent weeks and it's best for the Football Club to make a change at this stage. I'd like to thank Callum for his service and dedication to us and wish him every success in the future. He is a St Johnstone legend and always will be."

Reacting to the news former St Johnstone player James McFadden said he can't believe the news.

He told Sky Sports: "I can't believe it, I think it's shocking decision from the chairman. For what Callum has done for the club and I know it wouldn't have been an easy decision for him but I just don't see the point in getting rid of him at this point in time.

"Last season was disappointing but they managed to get themselves out of it in the play-off final. I just think it's a terrible decision and I hope it doesn't cost St Johnstone their place in the league."

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