DUNDEE were last night looking for a new chairman after Stuart Murphy quit Dens Park.... REPORTS The Daily Record
Murphy was a key figure in helping the Dark Blues survive administration last season when they copped a 25-point penalty that threatened to see them relegated to the Second Division.
His shock exit on personal grounds comes just two weeks after chief executive Harry McLean handed in his notice - although it's understood the departures are not linked.
Dundee, who are owned by fans' group Dundee Football Club Supporters Society, will now have to begin the search for a new leader in the boardroom.
Murphy said: "The past 18 months have probably been the most intense of any stage throughout the 118-year history of Dundee Football Club.
"As the club fought back from the brink of extinction I've had a determination to support that recovery and help consolidate its financial health.
"I'm extremely proud of the part I played in that recovery and equally proud to have served the club as chairman. This was a demanding and all-consuming period for me which thankfully ended on a positive note as the club survived its second period of administration.
"I believe the time is now right for me to invest these same levels of energy and commitment to all of the other aspects of my life and in particular to my immediate family.
"They have been incredibly supportive of all my football commitments but who now, for various reasons, deserve and are entitled to equal levels of attention.
"I have informed the directors of my decision and wish everyone well for the future."
A number of current Dundee board members could be in the running to fill the void left by Murphy. They include Steve Martin, Maurice Kidd and Mark Gallacher.