Swansea City have sacked head coach Michael Duff after less than six months in charge of the Championship club.
Duff departs after a run of one win in eight matches and with Swansea sitting 18th in the table.
The 45-year-old had endured a difficult spell as Swansea boss, with the club struggling to find any consistency this season.
Martin Paterson has also left, with his fellow assistant head coach Alan Sheehan becoming caretaker boss.
Sheehan will start his temporary tenure on Saturday, as Swansea go in search of a first win in five league games at second-bottom Rotherham United.
Duff's brief reign began with a seven-game winless streak in the league - including a miserable derby defeat at Cardiff City - before a run of four straight wins lifted his side into the top half of the table.
But they have since taken six points from a possible 24, a worrying run which has cost Duff his job.
The former Cheltenham Town and Barnsley boss was booed by sections of Swansea's support after last Saturday's draw with Huddersfield.
Swansea City said in a statement that "the process to appoint a new head coach is already under way".
Duff left League One Barnsley to take over at Swansea in June following former boss Russell Martin's move to Southampton.
The Welsh club made a host of changes behind the scenes and there was a major overhaul of the playing squad, with chairman Andy Coleman - who took up his role in May - suggesting Duff's side should be capable of challenging for promotion.
However, Swansea are only five points clear above the relegation zone having won just five of their 19 league games this season.
Swansea's style of play under Duff has been criticised, with the club moving away from the possession game which has been key to their successes in recent memory.
The former Cheltenham boss has also had an uneasy relationship with Swansea's fans.
'A learning experience'
Club chairman Coleman said: "This was a very difficult decision and one that was given considerable thought and attention.
"I acknowledge that there has been a significant amount of change at the club, both on and off the pitch, during Michael's tenure. I consistently asked for patience as we gave him time to implement his plans and bring the squad together.
"Unfortunately, we have seen neither the results that we expect nor the progress from the squad that we need. I believe it is now in the best interests of Swansea City to make a change of head coach.
"I have the greatest respect for Michael as a person and as a leader. I know how hard he and his staff have worked throughout this season for Swansea City.
"I want to personally thank Michael, Martin, and their families for the sacrifices they have made on behalf of this club and this city.
"I know that Michael will be successful in his next opportunity and on behalf of the board and the entire club, I wish him and Martin only the best in their future endeavours.
"I will learn from the experience of these last several months. My appreciation for how critical the Swansea identity is to this club has grown since the summer and it will be high in my mind as I make the decision on our new head coach."
Source: bbc.com