Scunthorpe United first-team manager Andy Butler was relieved of his duties yesterday afternoon after a difficult start to the season has left the Iron sitting 22nd in the National League. The club confirmed Butler's departure after a Board of Directors meeting, ending his time in charge after 127 matches.
Scunthorpe have picked up just 10 points from their opening 14 league games, winning 3, drawing 1 and losing 10. They currently occupy a relegation place, having conceded 28 goals and scored 18. It represents a dramatic change in fortunes for a club that was competing for promotion to the Football League last season.
Butler took charge in May 2024 and guided Scunthorpe to promotion from the National League North through the play-offs in his first full campaign. He followed that achievement with a fifth-place finish in the National League last season, missing out on back-to-back promotions after defeat in the play-off semi-finals.
The former defender has a long association with Scunthorpe, having progressed through the club's academy before making 174 appearances across three separate spells, scoring 15 goals.
He later returned as first-team coach before stepping into the manager's position.
In their official statement, Scunthorpe thanked Butler for his contribution, saying he had shown "fantastic commitment, work rate and dedication" throughout his time at the club. The Iron's subsequent tribute on social media recorded 64 wins, 28 draws and 35 defeats from his 127 matches in charge, along with one promotion.
The club confirmed that no further comment would be made at this stage, with additional details to follow.
Supporters react to Butler's departure
Reaction among Scunthorpe supporters has been mixed, with many accepting that a change was necessary while also recognising Butler's contribution to the club's recent success.
Supporter Callum wrote: "Not how we wanted it to end, but it's the correct decision. Hopefully Schofield goes too, as we need a complete change. All the best to him."
Charlie Betts shared a similar view, saying: "The correct decision. No one should take any joy from it, though. Andy deserves gratitude and respect for his service."
He added that he hoped the club could now pull together and get the squad performing again.