Falkirk last night parted company with Paul Hartley after losing their first three games of the season.

The former Dundee and Alloa manager had only been at the helm of the club since last October.

Hartley, who replaced Peter Houston and kept the club away from relegation last season, has overseen a start to the league campaign in which Falkirk have lost to Inverness, Partick Thistle and Queen of the South.

And last night the Falkirk board confirmed that they felt a change of direction was necessary as they parted company with the former Scotland internationalist. Hartley brought in 16 new signings over the summer but there were reports of dressing room unrest as both Lee Miller and Mark Kerr left the club after reports of falling out with Hartley.

A statement from the club read “Falkirk FC can confirm that it has come to a mutual agreement with Paul Hartley who will leave the club with immediate effect.

“The Board of Directors wish to place on record their gratitude to Paul for all of his work during his time at The Falkirk Stadium. We wish Paul and his family the very best for the future.

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“In the interim period, Gordon Young will take charge of first team affairs.

“A recruitment process will begin with immediate effect. The club is committed to keeping supporters informed as new arrangements are put in place.

“We thank our fans for your patience as we seek to build a positive platform for the season ahead.”