Murdo Mackay

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Murdo Mackay was Director of Football at Derby County. He contributed to the club's recent on-the-field success, culminating in a 4th-placed finish and play-off place at the end of the 2004/05 season. Unfortunately, Derby lost 2-0 over two legs to Preston North End and remained in English football's second tier, The Championship.

He originally had an undefined role at the club, but was involved in some excellent signings for the club, including Spanish midfielder Inigo Idiakez, Polish international striker Grzegorz Rasiak and re-signing fans' favourite Seth Johnson. There were notable failures too, including Mo Konjic, Stern John, Johnnie Jackson and Danny Graham.

Murdo had a poor relationship with George Burley, the manager who led Derby to their top six finish in 2004/05. There were rumours of disagreements and meddling in team affairs by Murdo. Burley subsequently resigned from his post in June 2005 stating his position had become untenable. During 2005/06, Murdo had a public dispute with Derby County's chief executive, Jeremy Keith, over the sale of star striker Grzegorz Rasiak to Tottenham Hotspur.

Following further disagreements, Murdo offered his resignation verbally which was accepted by the board in December 2005. In a subsequent vote, the Derby directors voted 4-1 in favour of Murdo leaving, with his only supporter being friend and Derby chairman John Sleightholme. However, Murdo was clinging to his post by claiming no written resignation was given to the board. Murdo eventually left his post at Derby County on 22 March 2006 claiming he could leave with his head held high.

Before his work at Derby, Murdo was a FIFA-registered football agent and represented many players at Rangers He was involved in failed businesses in Scotland and at one time has his assets sequestrated due to unpaid debts of £65,000.