Lawrence sacked by Bradford City

Lennie Lawrence, who led Bradford City to a surprise Coca-Cola Cup victory over Nottingham Forest last month, was dismissed by the Second Division club yesterday, writes Guy Hodgson. He will be replaced by his assistant, Chris Kamara, until the end of the season.

Bradford's chairman, Geoffrey Richmond, said: "It's with great regret and only after a great deal of soul searching that the decision has been made." Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Brentford leaves City 11th after only one win from their last eight games.

Lawrence said: "I am happy to have left the club in a healthy financial position. I realise the results have not been up to scratch in recent weeks but the parting has been amicable and the relationship between myself and the chairman remains one of great respect.''

The Stoke City manager, Lou Macari, has escaped with a warning after the Football Association found him guilty of rude remarks to referee Gerald Ashby during last month's Coca-Cola Cup tie against Newcastle. Less fortunate was Manchester City's Garry Flitcroft, who has been banned for three games after passing 21 disciplinary points thanks to his booking during the 1-0 victory over Wimbledon last week.

Birmingham are hoping to sign the Danish striker, Ronnie Ekelund, from Barcelona in time for tomorrow's Coca-Cola Cup fourth-round tie at Middlesbrough.