Timbers, Neville part ways after slow start

Phil Neville’s time at the Portland Timbers is at its end.

The club and manager announced they had parted ways on Monday.

The Timbers have won four of 14 matches this season and currently sit on 14 points, 13th in the Western Conference.

“In my nearly two decades of owning and operating the Portland Timbers, there are very few people I have enjoyed working with more than Phil Neville,” Timbers owner Merritt Paulson said in a statement. “Phil has outstanding leadership qualities and a boundless sense of positivity even in the face of adversity. I cannot thank Phil enough for his tireless dedication to this club and the Portland community, which he and his family truly embraced.”

A 49-year-old native of Bury, England, Neville was in his third season on the job. He amassed a 27-31-24 mark over his 30 months in charge of the club.

“We are appreciative of Phil’s commitment and efforts during his time with the Portland Timbers,” Timbers general manager Ned Grabavoy said in a statement. “Phil brought enthusiasm and passion to the role, and it was a pleasure to work with him. We wish Phil all the best in his next opportunity. This offseason we had pointed discussions about the areas we needed to build on and improve. Ultimately, we have not seen the progress we’ve needed to, and, most importantly, results have fallen well short of expectations.”

Prior to joining the Timbers, Neville spent time as manager of Inter Miami and the England senior women’s side.

As a player, Neville made 505 Premier League appearances across 19 seasons with Manchester United and Everton, retiring in 2013. During his time at Old Trafford, Neville - the younger brother of Red Devils icon Gary Neville - won six league titles, three FA Cups and the 1999 Champions League crown.

Internationally, Neville was capped 59 times by England

The Timbers do not play until July 16 and are currently on a three-week break. An announcement about coaching will be forthcoming.