Former Rangers star Maurice Ross has left his role with English side Notts County after an "ill-judged comment" to a player.
The Magpies were relegated from the English Football League for the first time at the end of the 2018-19 season and will spend a third season there as they languish in 10th place.
Ex Scotland international Ross was assistant manager with the club but has now left that role after a flashpoint with a member of the team.
A short statement on the County website said: "Assistant head coach Maurice Ross has this afternoon left the club with immediate effect.
"We will be making no further comment."
Later though Ross broke his silence and admitted he'd made an improper comment to one of his players.
The former Motherwell reserve boss said: "During Saturday’s match at Altrincham, I made an ill-judged comment to a member of our playing staff which has led to my departure from the club.
"I deeply regret the comment, which is not a reflection of the type of person I am, and would like to place on record my apologies to the player in question for the upset I have caused.
"While it was said in the heat of the moment with no malice intended, it was nevertheless unacceptable and I'm devastated by the impact it's caused.
"I would also like to apologise to the club’s board of directors, supporters & Ian Burchnall, all of whom I have enjoyed working with immensely. The club have handled today’s events impeccably and everyone at Meadow Lane has my full support for the rest of the season and beyond.
"I will be taking some time to reflect on my actions and learn from this experience before continuing my coaching journey."
