League Two round-up: Former Cobblers boss sacked by U's as top three all slip up

Calderwood, who managed Northampton between 2003 and 2006, was sacked after losing 4-0 at home to Salford City on Tuesday, which left United down in 18th in Sky Bet League Two.

Director of football Graham Daniels said: “We would like to thank Colin for everything he has done for the club. He came in last Christmas and played a big part in securing our League Two status in what was a difficult season.

"We had all hoped that the club would be able to push on under his leadership but after a reasonable start to the season everyone at the club recognises that both results and performances have not been good enough in recent weeks.

"We had all hoped that this poor run could be turned round but unfortunately that hasn’t happened. We have great respect for Colin Calderwood and wish him well for the future.”

Cambridge added that Mark Bonner will take temporary charge of the first team and the search for a permanent successor is already underway.

Elsewhere, Cobblers closed in on the automatic promotion spots after the top three teams all slipped up.

Leaders Swindon Town conceded three times in the final 15 minutes to lose at play-off dwellers Colchester United, Exeter went down by the same margin against Port Vale and Plymouth Arygle conceded Ollie Palmer's injury-time equaliser in a 2-2 draw with Crawley Town.

Crewe took advantage to move into the top three by beating Leyton Orient 2-0 - Daniel Powell scoring late on - while play-off rivals Bradford and Cheltenham drew 1-1 and Forest Green Rovers were heavily beaten 4-1 at home to Carlisle United.

Newport County, who have three games in hand over some teams, also remained in the play-off hunt by defeating Macclesfield Town 1-0.