EFL manager who was gifted red wine by Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag SACKED as club wish to go in ‘different direction’

NEWPORT COUNTY have SACKED manager Graham Coughlan to take the club in a “different direction.”

Coughlan took over in 2022 and took charge for a memorable FA Cup game against Manchester United in January.

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Graham Coughlan with Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag[/caption]

But after an 18th-placed League Two finish – Coughlan has been dismissed.

Chairman Huw Jenkins confirmed: “I have total respect for Graham and found this decision particularly difficult to make considering all the hard work he has put in to help stabilise the club over the last 18 months.

“It goes without saying that I wish Graham every success in his future managerial career.

“However, moving forward I must take the club and the team in a different direction and stay true to my own beliefs which I feel over time will bring sustained success to Newport County and hopefully change the club’s outlook for many years ahead.’’

Coughlan played for the likes of Blackburn, Plymouth, Sheffield Wednesday and finally Southend before hanging up his boots.

And the former defender went into coaching after retirement.

The highlight of his time at Newport was the 4-2 home loss to United earlier in the year.

And he shared a wholesome moment with Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag after the match having been gifted a bottle of red wine.

Coughlan jokingly responded: “Brilliant. You know I don’t drink wine, I drink Budweiser.”

Ten Hag replied: “Really, Budweiser? American beer? But this is a really very good one chosen by Sir Alex [Ferguson] so maybe your wife will enjoy it.”