Phil Neville leaves Portland Timbers after admitting results did not match expectations

Phil Neville led the Timbers to the playoffs in his first two seasons in charge. Photograph: Rebecca Blackwell/AP

Phil Neville is no longer in charge of the Portland Timbers after they announced they had “mutually parted ways” with their head coach.

“In my nearly two decades of owning and operating the Portland Timbers, there are very few people I have enjoyed working with more than Phil Neville,” said Timbers owner Merritt Paulson. “Phil has outstanding leadership qualities and a boundless sense of positivity even in the face of adversity. I cannot thank Phil enough for his tireless dedication to this club and the Portland community, which he and his family truly embraced.”