Gus Poyet has been sacked as manager of Sunderland.
The Uruguayan boss was fired after Saturday’s 0-4 home defeat to fellow Premier League relegation battlers Aston Villa.
That result left the Wearsiders 17th in the table, just a point above the relegation zone and with only one win in their last 10 games.
During the game, supporters tried to storm the dugout to hurl abuse and season tickets at Poyet.
A statement of the Black Cats’ website read:
Sunderland AFC have parted company with head coach Gus Poyet this afternoon.
The club would like to place on record its’ thanks to Gus and wishes him well for the future.
Chairman Ellis Short said: “I would like to thank Gus for his endeavours during his time at the club, in particular last season’s ‘great escape’ and cup final appearance, which will live long in the memory of every Sunderland fan.
“Sadly, we have not made the progress that any of us had hoped for this season and we find ourselves battling, once again, at the wrong end of the table. We have therefore made the difficult decision that a change is needed.”
An announcement will be made in due course regarding the head coach position.
Sporting director Lee Congerton is expected to search for a short-term appointment to help the club battle against relegation, with a longer-term replacement being appointed in the summer.
Poyet had been in charge at the Stadium of Light for 17-months. His tenure was full of ups and downs, including an incredible escape from relegation last season, reaching the League Cup final, winning the Tyne-Wear derby, getting thrashed 8-0 at Southampton and clashing with the club’s hierarchy.
