Head coach Owen Coyle and the Houston Dynamo have agreed to part ways, effective immediately. The second-year head coach expressed a desire to be closer to his family in England and the club accommodated the request.

“I asked Chris (Canetti) if I could speak with him today and I explained to him the challenge of being away from my family and how we all want the best for Houston Dynamo,” Coyle said. “I want to wish all members of the staff, from owner Gabriel Brener to president Chris Canetti to general manager Matt Jordan, everyone has been such a source of support, along with the players and the technical staff. I’d like to thank the Dynamo supporters, who have been outstanding. We have a brilliant club, and I have no doubt success is just around the corner.”

Coyle was appointed as the second head coach in Dynamo history on December 9, 2014. The Glasgow, Scotland native went 14-21-11 in 46 games with the Dynamo.

“It is unfortunate that we were unable to achieve the goals we set forth together and that we find ourselves mutually parting ways as a result of many professional and personal circumstances,” Dynamo president Chris Canetti said. “Without a doubt, Owen brought many great qualities to the club since his arrival 18 months ago and made a positive impression on the people around him. He is an excellent coach and an even better person, and I wish him and his terrific family nothing but the best going forward.”

“I’d like to thank Owen for all of his contributions during his time with the Houston Dynamo,” VP/general manager Matt Jordan said. “He is a true professional, a passionate coach and a good man. We wish him all the best moving forward.”

Assistant coaches Wade Barrett, Paul Caffrey and Paul Rogers will manage the Dynamo in Saturday’s game at Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Assistant coach Sandy Stewart has also elected to leave the organization. Over the next few days, the club will evaluate plans for the remainder of the season and make decisions that will be announced in the near future.