Sean Dyche has been sacked as Burnley boss with just eight games left of the Premier League season, ending his almost 10-year reign at the club.
Burnley are currently in the relegation zone on 24 points after 30 matches, four points adrift of 17th-placed Everton.
The Clarets’ hopes of avoiding the drop have taken a turn for the worse after losing five of their last six top-flight fixtures – including a damaging 2-0 loss at Norwich on Sunday.
Dyche was the Premier League’s longest serving manager, having taken over at Turf Moor in October 2012.
Assistant manager Ian Woan, first-team coach Steve Stone and goalkeeping coach Billy Mercer have also left the club.
Sacking Sean Dyche was ‘an incredibly difficult decision’
Speaking about Dyche’s dismissal, Burnley chairman described it as ‘an incredibly difficult decision’.
‘Firstly, we would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Sean and his staff for their achievements at the club over the last decade,’ said Pace.
‘During his time at Turf Moor, Sean has been a credit both on and off the pitch, respected by players, staff, supporters, and the wider football community.
‘However, results this season have been disappointing and, while this was an incredibly difficult decision, with eight crucial games of the campaign remaining, we feel a change is needed to give the squad the best possible chance of retaining its Premier League status.
‘Under-23s coach Mike Jackson, assisted by academy director Paul Jenkins, Under-23s goalkeeping coach Connor King and club captain Ben Mee have been asked to take charge of the team for Sunday’s game with West Ham United.
‘The process of replacing Sean has begun and further announcements will be made to supporters in due course.’
Dyche’s record at Turf Moor
Dyche had signed a new four-year contract until 2025 with Burnley in September last year.
During his spell at the club he guided them to two promotions from the Championship and two top-half Premier League finishes.
He also helped Burnley achieve their first European qualification in 51 years courtesy of leading them to a commendable seventh place in the Premier League in 2017-18.
However, the Clarets have won just four Premier League games this season, the worst win record in the league.
READ: Sean Dyche’s sacking opens up a new chapter for Burnley, but is it the right time as they battle Premier League relegation?