Marc Bircham claims he found out about his Waterford sacking on social media after an explosive morning at the Blues.
The Englishman has been shown the door just three days before their vital relegation-promotion playoff with UCD to stay in the Premier Division.
Bircham posted a tweet at 7.53am that revealed he had been suspended by the club for one week.
But Waterford replied at 8.33am with confirmation that the former QPR star had been sacked.
Bircham told WLR: “I put out a statement today which I thought was perfectly fine, just stating facts and letting everyone know I wasn't there and won't be at the game
“Then I just found out on social media that they terminated the contract. Nobody has contacted me whatsoever.”
In a brief radio interview, Bircham added: “The owner texted me last night that I was suspended for a week and I’m not allowed contact players or staff
“I was surprised this morning and even more surprised now. My official statement is that I am surprised.
“It's all out of my control. The decision has been made without me.
“Hopefully the players and staff can get the job done and get what they deserve and stay in the Premier Division.
“But I’ve not a clue (who takes over from him for Friday’s game at Richmond Park). I'm not allowed to speak to anyone with the club
“The most important thing for the players and supporters is to stay in the Premier Division. But I'm very surprised.”
The Waterford FC Academy’s twitter account posted a tweet refuting claims that Bircham made about the availability of the club’s Under-19s for training last week.
It was swiftly deleted in a move that suggests there were tensions brewing behind the scenes.
Waterford FC said it was not commenting beyond the confirmation that Bircham had been sacked
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
