Premier League icon breaks his silence after being sacked by EFL club – as he claims he was ‘hugely disappointed’ with the decision

A former Premier League star has expressed their disappointment on social media after being sacked by an EFL club after a year in charge.

The ex-midfielder, who spent eight years playing in England’s top flight, left the club hovering above the relegation zone after a miserable run of form.

It was the 39-year-old’s first role in management, having hung up their boots in 2022 following a storied career in English football. 

Charlie Adam was appointed Fleetwood Town manager last December with the aim of keeping the Cod Army in League One.

The Scot failed to guide the Lancashire side to survival, and after winning just one match out of their last 12, he was informed his services were no longer needed on Sunday.

On Christmas Eve, Adam released a statement which said: ‘I’m hugely disappointed to leave Fleetwood Town after nearly a year as manager, but would like to thank the board for the opportunity.

The Cod Army are down in 18th in the fourth tier after winning just one of their last 12 matches

Adam, 39, took to X to express his sadness at being relieved of his duties in a statement

‘I inherited a very difficult situation, and it was a challenge which I feel my staff and I tackled head on – very nearly avoiding relegation in our first six months in charge.

‘This season we built what we thought was a team and squad more than capable of competing at the top end of the division, something I think everyone saw signs of with some excellent results earlier on in the campaign.

‘With key players due to return from injury, and a January window around the corner, I’m disappointed I won’t have the chance to finish the job I started – but that’s football!

‘I’d like to thank the staff for their excellent support and the young group of players for their hard work and dedication.

‘I also want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the supporters, who have been fantastic throughout my tenure and got behind me from day one, as well as my friends and family for their unwavering support during this journey.

‘I was proud to manage Fleetwood Town and will always remain fond of the club. Following a short break, I’ll look forward to my next challenge – one I know I’ll be stronger for. All the best and thanks, Charlie.’

The final straw came after Fleetwood were beaten 2-0 away by Barrow on Saturday, meaning they had lost three of their last four matches and sat 18th in League Two.

A statement from Fleetwood’s owner Jane Pilley read: ‘I’d like to personally thank Charlie for his commitment and professionalism over the last 12 months.

The former Scotland international started his Premier League career with Blackpool in 2010

After an impressive season with the Lancashire side he was snapped up by Liverpool 

‘He’s been a pleasure to work with but recent results meant we felt a change was necessary. I wish him well for the future.’

Former Scotland international Adam played in the Premier League for Blackpool, Liverpool and Stoke City. He won the League Cup with Liverpool in 2012.

Adam made over 200 appearances in the Premier League and scored 34 goals in the division between 2010 and 2018.

After retiring from playing in September 2022, Adam started working as loans manager at Burnley, before his move into management with Fleetwood.