by Our Sports Desk

LEICESTER CITY confirmed the end of manager Nigel Pearson’s reign at the club yesterday, stating “fundamental differences in perspective” between the controversial boss and the club’s board of directors.

Pearson ended the season on a high, having steered the Foxes out of the relegation zone with an amazing run of results that saw them winning seven of their last nine games.

The 51-year-old took over at the Leicester City Stadium for the second time in 2011 and steered the club into the top flight.

But his tenancy was marred by string of incidents that included receiving a £10,000 fine and one-match touchline ban for an altercation with a fan, calling a reporter an “ostrich” for being unhappy with a line of questioning and getting involved in a bizarre touchline clash with Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur whom he seemingly grabbed round the neck while the player was on the ground.

Following their Premier League survival, on a post-season tour of Thailand, Pearson’s son James was one of three players sacked by the club for their involvement in a sexually explicit video in which racist language was used.

Announcing the departure, the club statement said: “The board of directors recognises the success Nigel has helped to bring to Leicester City during his two spells in charge of the club, particularly during the last three and a half years.

“However, it has become clear to the club that fundamental differences in perspective exist between us.

“Regrettably, the club believes that the working relationship between Nigel and the board is no longer viable.

“We trust that the club’s supporters will recognise that the owners have always acted with the best interests of the club at heart and with the club’s long-term future as their greatest priority.”

The decision to sack the manager was mocked by former Leicester striker Gary Lineker, who referenced rumours of his sacking in February which proved untrue.

Writing on Twitter Lineker said: “Leicester City have sacked Nigel Pearson! Really? WTF! Could you kindly reinstate him like the last time you fired him?

“Getting LCFC promoted and the greatest escape ever, Pearson is sacked? Are the folk running football stupid? Yes.”