Coventry chairman Ray Ranson has revealed his lack of faith in Iain Dowie's methods led to the former manager's sacking.

Dowie and members of his backroom staff were relieved of their duties with the Sky Blues sitting in 19th place in the Championship, just four points above the relegation zone.

Despite strong performances in both cup competitions, City have won just once in the league this year and Ranson did not foresee an improvement under Dowie.

"In the transfer window, we spent over £1million securing the services of two of the best young players outside the Premiership in Scott Dann and Danny Fox," Ranson, who led a takeover of the club in December, claimed in a statement on the club's official website.

"During this time, I spoke with Iain Dowie on a regular basis on all aspects relating to football matters.

"As is sometimes the case, we did not share the same ideals for the club and I felt that to move Coventry City forward towards a more progressive and modern way of operating, I would need a different style of first-team management here."

Ranson has vowed to dedicate his "complete attention" to the search for Dowie's successor.

"I have set no timescales to deliver the right manager or coach, but rest assured that I will be exploring every opportunity to ensure Coventry City can progress and deliver stability both on the pitch as well as off it," he added.

Meanwhile, Ipswich manager Jim Magilton has backed former Northern Ireland room-mate Dowie to "bounce back" after his sacking.

"I'm very disappointed for him," he told Town's website.

"It just goes to show you don't get any time in football now. I don't think Coventry gave him the time to establish himself.

"Maybe he overwhelmed people with his desire and feeling for the game. That has been said about me as well. He will bounce back though and be a success somewhere else."

Tom Williams / Eurosport