Murdo Mackay

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Murdo Mackay was Director of Football at Derby County. He contributed to the club's on-the-field success, culminating in a fourth place finish and play-off spot at the end of the 2004/05 season. Derby went on to lose 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 fourth place 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. In the 2005/06 season, 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, notably with chief executive Jeremy Keith, Murdo tendered his verbal resignation to 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 made a u-turn and clung on to his post by claiming no written resignation was ever 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 involvement in football Mackay served with the Royal Navy.[1]