DAVID MARTINDALE REVEALS THE REAL SHOCKING REASON BEHIND HIS DECISION TO STEP DOWN AS LIVINGSTON COACH , CALVIN FORD 👀
In a dramatic development, Livingston confirmed that Martindale has moved into a new off-field role, with his successor already named.
The decision comes after a brutal return to the Premiership for the Lions. Despite bouncing back at the first attempt via the play-offs, Livingston have endured a nightmare campaign, managing just one win from 24 league matches and sitting bottom of the table on 11 points.
Following Saturday’s 2–0 loss to Motherwell, Martindale insisted he would not walk away. However, within 24 hours, the club announced a major change Martindale has relinquished his role as manager but will remain at Livingston as Sporting Director.
🔄 Bartley steps up
Martindale has been replaced by Marvin Bartley, previously his assistant. The 39-year-old knows the club well, having spent three years as a Livingston player between 2019 and 2022, before transitioning into coaching.
Bartley left Livingston in January 2023 to take charge of Queen of the South, his first managerial job. He departed that role at the end of last season and later returned to Livi’s coaching staff.
His first match as head coach will be Wednesday night’s clash with Falkirk at Almondvale.
Livingston currently sit six points adrift at the bottom, a gap that widened after Kilmarnock’s 3–0 win over Aberdeen.
🗣️ Martindale takes responsibility
Speaking after the announcement, Martindale admitted accountability for the club’s struggles and accepted that change was unavoidable.
He backed Bartley to keep the club in the division, stressing that while he will offer support in his new role, there must be a clear separation between the football department and his Sporting Director duties.
Martindale also urged unity, calling on players, staff and supporters to rally behind Bartley and the squad, insisting the dressing room has enough quality to turn results around during what he described as a defining moment for the club.
🏟️ Chairman backs the move
Livingston chairman Calvin Ford praised Martindale’s commitment and welcomed his transition upstairs, calling his passion and loyalty “unmatched.”
Ford described Martindale’s continued involvement as crucial to the club’s long-term vision, particularly in recruitment and squad development.
On Bartley, the chairman was equally confident, stating the former midfielder is fully ready for the opportunity, citing his experience at Livingston and Queen of the South as key factors behind the appointment.
Ford added that the club is excited about this new chapter and believes the changes will strengthen Livingston both on and off the pitch, while thanking supporters for their continued backing.
