"He leaves with our best wishes for the future."
Morecambe FC have announced the departure of manager Ashvir Singh Johal by mutual consent, with the club sitting second from bottom in the National League.
Under Johal, the Shrimps won just five of 28 league matches and remain five points from safety with 18 games left this season.
Johal took charge following Panjab Warriors’ takeover last August, becoming the first Sikh to manage a British professional football team.
His appointment followed a turbulent period, which included relegation from the English Football League and significant off-field issues that disrupted pre-season preparations.
Those problems also led to the club’s suspension from the National League before the 2025-26 campaign began.
In a statement, the club said: “Ashvir joined the Shrimps during a challenging period and has worked tirelessly alongside his staff to stabilise the squad, integrate new players, and represent the club with professionalism and integrity both on and off the pitch.
“The board would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Ashvir for his commitment, dedication, and the way he has conducted himself throughout his time.
“He leaves with our best wishes for the future.”
Ashvir Singh Johal’s appointment initially sparked cautious optimism, with supporters hopeful the new owners could steady the ship.
Morecambe began the season with a 2-1 home win over Altrincham after quickly assembling a squad to compete in the National League.
However, that sense of promise has quickly faded, as rising tensions between fans and the club have cast a shadow over Morecambe once again.
The club added: “Assistant manager Lee Tomlin and first-team coach Neil Wainwright will take joint charge of first-team affairs on an interim basis while the club undertakes the process of appointing a new manager.
“The process to appoint a new first team manager is underway.”
“We will keep supporters informed as appropriate, and thank you, as always, for your continued backing of the team and the club.”
Ashvir Singh Johal leaves the club after a five-game winless run.
Next up for the Shrimps is a trip to Altrincham on February 3, 2026.
Morecambe FC is now battling to avoid consecutive relegations, which would drop them into regional football for the first time since 1995.
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