Troy Deeney claims he was sacked by Forest Green before receiving first payslip

20 January 2024 , 09:10

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Troy Deeney has spoken out on his Forest Green sacking (Image: BBCSounds/Youtube)

Troy Deeney has claimed he was sacked by Forest Green Rovers before receiving his first pay packet.

The former Watford striker was sacked by League Two’s basement club after a rotten spell in charge. He was appointed last month as player-manager.

Deeney endured a disastrous stint as he failed to win any of his opening six games, while he was also criticised for publicly calling out his players to the media. He was also hit with a four-match ban by the FA after being sent from the touchline during a 2-1 defeat to Swindon.

The 35-year-old has since spoken out on his departure from Forest Green. He claims he feels “used” by the club and was axed before receiving his first payslip.

“They told me it was because of results but I have trouble believing that,” Deeney said. “I feel to a certain extent I have been used for my contacts and pulling power.

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“We had brought in five players in this window, most of whom would not have dropped down to the bottom of League Two if it wasn’t for me — including Maxi Oyedele, on loan from Manchester United. Four weeks ago, I was the solution. Now I’m told I’m the problem.

“The club knew the type of character I was, someone that had been in the dressing room and knew changes needed to be made if the club was going to grow and gain improved results on the pitch.

Troy Deeney failed to win a game with Forest Green (Getty Images)

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“When you’re taking over a club in the middle of a season and it is rock bottom of the league you can’t take your time and go easy. Hard words needed to be spoken and I felt that we were about to turn a corner with results.

“Was I the problem? Or is it the club that is about to appoint its ninth manager in less than three years? I was expected to turn around the fortunes of a failing club in less than a month. I hadn’t even received my first payslip as a manager when they told me they were getting rid of me.”

Deeney has left Forest Green bottom of League Two and staring down the barrel of relegation from the Football League. They have won just four matches from 26 this season.

Goalkeeping coach Dan Connor is set to take charge of the side for this weekend’s clash with Gillingham as Forest Green attempt to steer themselves to safety. Deeney now faces a decision over his future over whether he continues to play or pursues a managerial position.

The striker had made 16 league appearances for Forest Green this season and scored four goals. He did not take to the pitch at all during his managerial spell.

Daniel Orme