Steve Coppell has resigned as Manager of Bristol City after just two games in charge at the club.

The 55-year-old only joined the Ashton Gate club 112 days ago but told the Chairman Steve Lansdown of his decision yesterday, following defeats to Millwall and Southend United.

In a statement on the League Managers Association website he said: "It is with the deepest regret that I confirm my departure from Bristol City. I have made my decision after very careful consideration and I believe that it is in the best interests of both the club and me personally that we go our separate ways.

"Bristol City is an excellent club, with brilliant support and a Chairman with great ambition for the club's future. Whilst I was looking forward to the challenge of leading the players in this season's campaign, unfortunately, it has become clear over recent weeks, that I found I could not, for whatever reason, become passionate about the role and give the commitment the position demands.

"I appreciate that the timing of my departure is not ideal, but I believe it is best for the club to appoint a new Manager or indeed appoint Keith Millen, who has a deep knowledge of the club and the squad, at this stage of the season. That individual can then make decisions on signing players before the window closes and work with the squad for the full campaign.

"I am retiring from football management but still feel I have a contribution to make to the game sometime in the future. I would like to sincerely thank the chairman and the board for their understanding and I wish the club and its supporters every success."

The club has acted quickly, with a trip to Doncaster Rovers on Saturday, by appointing Keith Millen as their new Manager on a three-year deal.

Speaking on the news the 43-year-old told www.bcfc.co.uk: "I'm excited but I'm still getting over the shock really.

"I knew I wanted to do the job and last season I enjoyed it. For certain reasons I decided to step aside from it and I was looking forward to working with Steve.

"I did enjoy working with him and we are still friends. We met last night, when he told me the news. He apologised for leaving me in this situation.

"You have to be your own man and go with your decisions. The players know, certainly from last year, how I like things working."

Millen is no stranger to the position after stepping into the breach last season following the departure of Gary Johnson. He had nine games in charge and won five and drew three.

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