Gus Poyet has been sacked as Sunderland manager following his side's comprehensive 4-0 home defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday.
Braces apiece from Christian Benteke and Gabriel Agbonlahor put the Black Cats to the sword at the Stadium of Light, with rafts of home supporters leaving at half-time, when the score was already 4-0.
The Sunderland fans who were left turned on the manager at full time, making their displeasure clear.
As a result of the defeat Sunderland sit 17th in the Premier League table and only one point clear of the relegation zone.
He held talks with the club hierarchy earlier today to reflect on the defeat and the decision was taken to relieve him of his duties at the Stadium of Light.
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Sunderland said in a statement: "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 was quick to place on record his thanks for Poyet's efforts with Sunderland, but explained that a change is needed with the position the club find themselves in.
"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."
The Black Cats are next in action at the weekend against West Ham at Upton Park, a game which is then followed by a visit from fierce rivals Newcastle United.
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