FANS and former players reacted with shock to the news that Stan Ternent will not be in charge of Burnley FC next season.

Clarets legend Jimmy McIlroy said many fans would be struggling to digest the news today.

He said: "This is shock news because Stan always maintained that Burnley would be his last club. To hear that he will no longer be at the club next season is unbelievable.

"He has been a successful manager over the last six years, and he's done it on a shoe string this last year. It's the last thing I expected at Turf Moor today."

Clarets supporters clubs were equally surprised by the news.

Paul Smith of Boundary Clarets said many fans would be taken aback by the timing of the move, with just one league game to go.

He said: "The timing is really odd and will take most people by surprise. I thought he would have made the brave decision himself at the end of the season.

"He's been a great manager, but he's taken the team as far as he can. He said when he tookl over that he would leave the club in a better position than when he came -- and he's been true to his word."

Dave Whin, of Colne Clarets, said rumours of dressing room bust-ups may have contributed to the decision. He added: "I believe he had lost the dressing room and once that happens it would always be difficult."

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Former player, Martin Dobson, said he appointed Stan as a coach when he was at Bury, and wished him well for the future.

He said: "I am sad to see him go because the club have being successful in his reign.

"It has being difficult financially over the past 18 months, and it could be the club could have decided it is time for a fresh approach.

"But until all the facts come out you just don't know really."

Playing legand Andy Lockhead said: "It is going to be a massive job for Burnley Football Club to replace him and there is nobody who springs to mind who could replace him.

"I think the club have done very well in the six-years Stan has being here, and if they bring a stranger in he his going to have to work miracles.

"This season has not gone very well and with the financial situation he has done a good job in keeping the club in the First Division."