GUNN'S GIVEN THE BULLET; BOSS GUNN GETS BULLET.

Byline: ALAN NIXON

BRYAN GUNN became the first managerial casualty of the season - after he was sacked by Norwich just a week into the campaign.

Gunn had a nightmare start when his Canaries were crushed 7-1 at home by Colchester United, but he was allowed to carry on and his side bounced back with a 4-0 win in the Carling Cup over Yeovil on Tuesday. The popular Scot, who stepped into the post following the sacking of Glenn Roeder in January, was with the players at their camp in Exeter when he was told the news.

Former Canaries keeper Gunn is 'devastated' by the decision, coming hours before the game with the Devon club. He had hoped for more time to turn round the club's fortunes and handle their difficulties off the park.

Another former City favourite, Ian Crook, will take charge today while the Canaries board consider a replacement - and the coach may even get the nod in the long term.

Carrow Road chief executive David McNally said: "Bryan has worked tirelessly for this football club for more than two decades, not least since taking over team affairs in January.

"However, the board met this week following Saturday's unacceptable record home defeat in our opening game of the season. A change was in the best interests of all parties concerned."

CAPTION(S):

OUT YOU GO Sacked Bryan Gunn mirrorfootball.co.uk broke the story 45mins ahead of the rest yesterday afternoon