West Bromwich Albion have sacked manager Steve Bruce eight days before they host Bristol City following a dismal start to the season.
One of the favourites for promotion at the beginning of the campaign, the Baggies occupy the final relegation spot in the Championship after just one victory in their first 13 matches. Their 0-0 draw at home to Luton on Saturday stretched their winless run to eight league matches.
Currently sitting 22nd, it is their worst league position in over 20 years with Bruce unable to turn around their fortunes since his appointment eight months ago. His backroom staff of Steve Agnew, Stephen Clemence and Alex Bruce have also left the club.
Under-21s coach Richard Beale will take the interim position and could be in the dugout when City travel to the Hawthorns next Tuesday. A statement posted on their website read: "West Bromwich Albion have today parted company with Manager Steve Bruce. Backroom staff Steve Agnew, Stephen Clemence and Alex Bruce have also left The Hawthorns.
"The club would like to place on record its thanks to Steve Bruce and his coaching staff for their efforts since arriving in February. Under-21s coach Richard Beale will oversee first-team affairs on an interim basis, assisted by James Morrison and Gary Walsh.
"The process of recruiting a new Manager is now underway and an appointment will be confirmed in due course."
Bruce is the seventh manager to receive the sack in the Championship this season with just 13 matches played. Stoke, Huddersfield, Cardiff, Watford, Hull and Middlesbrough have all axed their bosses while Sunderland and Rotherham saw their managers depart for other clubs.
The 61-year-old's sacking also means Nigel Pearson, at 59, is now the oldest manager in the Championship ahead of Sunderland's Tony Mowbray. Rob Edwards is the early favourite to replace him, following his Watford sacking, with Sean Dyche and Scott Parker also among the front runners.
Chris Wilder, John Terry and Michael Carrick are also among the betting but it remains to be seen whether they make a permanent appointment before their contest against the Robins.
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