SPFL manager sacked after five league games as ex-boss returns amid 'mediocrity' blast

Former Republic of Ireland international Whelan took over in the summer following the club's relegation to the Scottish Championship but won only two of his five league outings and failed to qualify for the Premier Sports Cup knock-out stages.

The axe fell on Sunday night following a 1-0 home defeat by league leaders Stenhousemuir the previous day which left the West Lothian club fifth in the table, seven points off the top.

Announcing the end of Whelan's brief tenure, American owner and club chairman Calvin Ford, stated: "Our net will be cast far wider than it was in our previous search, and the focus of the search will be via data analytics.

"Mediocrity is not an acceptable solution, and we will continue to work to find the leader that delivers on the ambitions and aspirations of sustained, high-level success that we expect at Livingston. Nothing else is acceptable.

"We are driven by our desire to win and compete at the highest level, and we feel that this decision is appropriate given the unfortunate start to the 2026/27 season."

Martindale will attempt to ignite what has been a slow start to Livingston’s promotion push. The former Livi boss, who moved upstairs in January after six years as head coach, will be assisted by Frankie McAvoy.

"Davie's past success and proven track record in the Scottish Championship made this decision easy, and we look forward to refocusing and finding success on the pitch while he holds this position," added Ford.