ALLOA are once again searching for a new manager, following the departure of Barry Ferguson.

The former Scotland captain took the helm in the summer with a remit to secure The Wasps' return to the Scottish Championship.

However, it was a disastrous reign for Ferguson, with Alloa now sitting eighth in the league, ten points shy of the play-offs, and with an extra game played.

The league table makes for poor reading, with just six wins from 25 games.

Leaders Cove Rangers, who Alloa were initially aiming to battle for the top spot, have more than double the points tally.

Pressure had been mounting for weeks, with Alloa unable to beat Montrose, Queen's Park or Clyde.

They were then beaten 3-0 at home by Falkirk, before Saturday's loss to bottom side East Fife sealed Ferguson's fate.

Alloa also picked up a seventh red card of the season – with indiscipline plaguing the team in recent months.

On Monday this week, Alloa FC issued a statement saying Ferguson would be leaving to allow someone new to come in and give the players a 'fresh impetus'.

Chairman Mike Mulraney added: "I have huge respect for Barry and appreciate the effort he has given the club this season.

"Whilst I share Barry's disappointment in our performances over the last few weeks I have nothing but praise for his endeavour and commitment to the club in his time with us.

"His professionalism and dedication has been a credit to him and he leaves with our best wishes and thanks."

Ferguson later told the Daily Record: "There's no regrets. I wouldn't have changed anything. It was the right opportunity – I had done what I had to do at Kelty and I felt this was the right one.

"It's not worked, am I disappointed? Yes. But I will dust myself down and I know I'm a good coach and manager and I will come back from this and it's not going to put me off management.

"It was 100 per cent my decision. I had a right good discussion with the chairman and he respected my decision.

"I just felt it needed something different."