Paatelainen leaves relegated Dundee United

London: Mixu Paatelainen has left his role as Dundee United head coach following their relegation from the Scottish Premiership, the club announced on Wednesday.

The 49-year-old Finn, a former United player, was appointed in October, but could not arrest a slide that concluded in relegation following Monday’s 2-1 defeat at local rivals Dundee.

“I would like to thank the players, staff and supporters,” said Paatelainen, the former Hibernian, Kilmarnock and Finland manager, in a short statement released by the club.

“It has been a difficult winter and the challenge was huge, but nevertheless I have enjoyed every day working for the club and with this group of players.”

The club said: “The club thanks Mixu for his service and will now begin the search for a new head coach.”