Derry 'saddened' by Magpies exit

Derry was dismissed by the League One strugglers last week following a run of nine defeats from 12 games.

However, the 37-year-old believes the Magpies would have achieved safety this season under his tenure, despite their untimely downturn in form.

In a statement issued via the LMA, Derry said: "I was very saddened to leave Notts County, but I am proud to have left the club in a better place than when I arrived.

"When I was appointed on 6th November 2013, the club was on 10 points after 15 games, two points behind 23rd place, and needed four points to reach safety.

"League One survival had always been the aim since pre-season this year and the club was well-placed to achieve that with nine games of the season left.

"It was a source of pride for me this season when we remained unbeaten away until the Bradford match on 28th December, a record throughout the top four leagues.

"I would like to pass on my sincere thanks to my coaching staff for all their hard work over the past 16 months and, in particular, to my assistant Greg Abbott.

"I also thank the players who played and trained under difficult circumstances to a very high standard and I send my best wishes to everyone at Notts County for the future."

Paul Hart and Mick Halsall were appointed caretaker managers following the departure of Derry.

A 2-2 home draw with Scunthorpe on Saturday left Notts 20th in the League One table and only out of the relegation zone on goal difference.