On 28 December, Gannon was sacked by Motherwell, with the club indicating that Gannon was "not fully committed to the club" as the reason for their decision. He had been rumoured to be looking for other jobs. Gannon was reportedly working under a temporary contract, and was yet to sign a longer-term deal as had been expected. Though the board were satisfied with results on the pitch, they felt that the relationship between Gannon and the directors had broken down. Dubbed a 'loose Gannon', it was seen that either he or club captain Craigan would leave the club. Despite this he was praised for his signings from the English leagues, and for the good open passing football his young side could play whilst at their best. Motherwell went on to finish the season in fifth place under Craig Brown.