Queens Park Rangers have sacked manager Neil Critchley amid fears they were sleepwalking towards relegation to League One.
The decision to part company with Critchley was taken after Saturday’s 3-1 defeat Middlesbrough left QPR 17th in the Championship, eight points above the bottom three.
Critchley departs Loftus Road after just 12 games in charge.
He was appointed on a three-and-a-half year deal in December following the departure of Michael Beale.
QPR were three points off of the play-off places when he took over but have managed just one win in the Championship since then.
Director of football Les Ferdinand says the club are plotting a “swift appointment” to replace Critchley.
QPR CEO Lee Hoos said: “It is hugely disappointing to have to make such a decision so early into Neil’s tenure with the club.
“However, after seeing the team slip from play-off contenders to one being drawn into a relegation battle, the board felt it had to act.
“There is no doubt Neil inherited a difficult situation when he joined and we would like to acknowledge his superb work ethic and professionalism throughout our dealings.
“He is a fantastic man and we have no doubts he will go on to be a success elsewhere, just as he was at Blackpool.”
Director of football Ferdinand added: “Unfortunately, things have not worked out how any of us would have liked.
“As we enter into a critical stage of the season, we understand the need for a swift appointment to be made.
“Stability is key to the success of a football club and this season has presented challenges which have denied us that stability.
“For us to move forward we must all learn from what has happened and pull together.”
