PAUL HARTLEY believes he would have led Dundee to Ladbrokes Premiership safety if he had been allowed to finish the season at Dens Park.

The 40-year-old was sacked on Monday after seeing his side drop to the relegation play-off spot with only five games remaining.

Saturday's 2-0 defeat to Hamilton Accies was the Dee's seventh consecutive league defeat and spelled the end for the former Celtic midfielder, despite being named Premiership manager of the month as recently as February. 

Hartley first joined the club in February 2014 and led them to the Championship title as well as a top six finish on their return to the top flight. 

Read more: Paul Hartley sacked as Dundee manager after seven defeats in a row

Managing director John Nelms said in a club statement that "change is necessary to achieve the goals we have set," but Hartley is convinced he was capable of avoiding the drop despite recent form.

He said: "I'm disappointed not to have been given the chance to see out the remainder of the season because I firmly believe we would have retained our SPFL Premiership status.

"I was confident we would have moved up the League table as there are some excellent players in the dressing-room, led by captain Darren O’Dea.

"However, I respect the decision made by the Dundee FC board and would like to wish everyone success in the final five games of the campaign.

"I'm very proud of what I achieved at Dundee since I was appointed manager in February, 2014.

"We won promotion to the SPFL top flight and we finished in the top six. There is no doubt I’m leaving the club in a far stronger position now from when I first joined.

"I want to thank all my backroom staff, who have been a pleasure to work with and gave me unswerving support, and also thank all the people who work at the club behind the scenes.

"I've met a lot of good people over the years at Dens Park and leave with a lot of happy memories. 

"Finally, I wish the club well in the future and look forward to my next challenge in management."