Bristol City majority shareholder Steve Lansdown has explained the surprise sacking of first-team coach John Pemberton by saying he did not fit into the club's future plans.
Pemberton and chief scout Des Taylor parted company with the Sky Bet Championship strugglers ahead of Tuesday's 1-1 home draw against Norwich.
The result left City in the relegation zone with Lee Johnson's side having won only two of their last 22 league games.
"John has been part of the Bristol City family for the past four years, playing a lead role in the coaching team," Lansdown told the official club website.
"However, when reviewing our plans for the future John was unfortunately not part of them.
"I have really enjoyed working with John and would like to take this opportunity to thank him on behalf of everyone at the club for his hard work, dedication and commitment during his time at Ashton Gate."
Former Leeds and Crystal Palace defender Pemberton joined City in 2013 to assist then head coach Sean O'Driscoll, until the latter's departure in November of the same year.
The 52-year-old stepped in as caretaker boss before Steve Cotterill led the Robins to a League One and Football League Trophy double in the 2014-15 season.
Pemberton had another brief spell in caretaker charge after Cotterill's exit in January 2016 before Johnson was appointed the following month.
Johnson commented on Pemberton's exit after the Norwich game, saying: "I cannot say too much. But it was a club decision involving myself and the board.
"We believe these decisions have been taken for the long-term benefit of the club.
"The club has a young, hungry philosophy, and bringing Jamie McAllister on (as Pemberton's replacement) should be celebrated.
"I would like to wish John all the best. He's a good guy and I have no issues with him."
