SCOTT BROWN has left Ayr United by “mutual consent” with immediate effect.

The legendary former Celtic captain, who won 22 honours at the club, makes his shock exit with the Somerset Park club dropping to eighth in the Championship.

Broony watched his side lose 3-0 to Raith Rovers on Friday evening, a defeat that extended their winless run in to eight games.

Assistant gaffer Steven Whittaker has also departed while veteran forward Jamie Murphy will take over in interim charge as the search for a permanent successor behins.

A club statement read: “Ayr United confirms that Scott Brown and Steven Whittaker have left the club by mutual consent.

“The club wishes to thank them both for their dedication throughout their time at Ayr United and wish them every success for their future careers.

“Training today will be taken by Jamie Murphy, Tommy Tait and Dave Timmins and there will be a further communication regarding an interim position in due course.”

Forty-year-old Brown was named team chief at the Ayrshire outfit in January 2024 along with lone-time friend Whittaker, a former Hibs team-mate.

They were also together at the Hoops’ hero’s first managerial stint at English club Fleetwood Town which...