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Kris Doolan Reflects on Departure from Partick Thistle

Kris Doolan has expressed that the lack of budgetary support and the club’s failure to bolster the squad during the January transfer window were significant contributors to his dismissal as manager of Partick Thistle. In his first comments since leaving the club, the 38-year-old highlighted that the uncertainty within the organization also negatively impacted player performance.

Doolan, who was a fan favorite and served as the assistant to Peter MacDonald, saw both of their contracts ended in February amid a disappointing stretch of four matches without a victory, which left the team in fourth place in the Scottish Championship.

Since taking over the managerial duties on an interim basis, Brian Graham and Mark Wilson have managed to maintain the club’s position in fourth place, keeping them in contention for a promotion play-off spot following a six-match unbeaten streak.

“While I have to move forward, it’s hard not to feel disappointed; my goal was to elevate the club to the Premiership,” Doolan told BBC Scotland. “There are decisions made behind the scenes for various reasons, which can include financial issues or other factors that influence boardroom decisions.

“Typically, you wouldn’t see managers lose their jobs when they’re in a play-off position. However, I recognize that if Partick Thistle were to fall out of play-off contention, it could lead to financial challenges for the club.”

Taking the helm in 2023 after Ian McCall, Doolan guided Partick Thistle to the Premiership play-off final but suffered a heart-wrenching defeat to Ross County in a penalty shootout. The subsequent season saw the team again reach the play-off semi-finals, only to fall to Raith Rovers in another penalty shootout.

Certain of his capacity to replicate the success this season had he remained in charge, Doolan stated, “If the club had ended the season in fifth place, I would have voluntarily stepped back. I was under the impression that making the play-offs was the objective. Had we not achieved that, I would have accepted responsibility and saved the club some funds.”

Doolan also emphasized, “Had we reinforced the squad in January, I believe those final results would have varied significantly. I possess the knowledge and expertise needed to lead the team to the play-offs. Despite the challenges and uncertainties occurring behind the scenes, I was determined to maintain my focus.”

Source
www.bbc.com