The Portland Thorns have placed general manager Gavin Wilkinson on administrative leave, effective immediately. The club issued the following statement prior to their match against the Houston Dash on Wednesday night:
Effectively immediately, Portland Thorns FC have placed general manager/president of soccer Gavin Wilkinson on administrative leave from Thorns duties pending the results of the outside independent investigation, which is ongoing.
Wilkinson’s role as general manager of the Portland Timbers does not appear to be in question, despite public outcry and demands from supporter groups to have Wilkinson removed from both organizations.
Wilkinson faces due criticism for his role in failing to maintain player safety and a lack of transparency during former coach Paul Riley’s tenure with the Thorns.
Earlier today, players from the Thorns issued the following statement:
