Brighton sack Poyet

Gus Poyet has been sacked as Brighton & Hove Albion manager following his suspension.

The former Chelsea and Tottenham player led Brighton to the Championship play-offs after an impressive 2012-13 season.

But, after losing to Crystal Palace in the semi-finals, he was suspended by the club after an alleged breach of contract.

Reports claimed that the 45-year-old told his players that he was unsure whether he could take the club any further following the loss to Palace, and after weeks of uncertainty he has now finally discovered his fate.

A club statement read: “Gus Poyet has been informed today by Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club’s internal disciplinary panel that his employment has been terminated with immediate effect.

“This followed his suspension, an investigation, and a subsequent formal disciplinary process. In line with the club’s own procedures, and UK employment law, Mr Poyet now has a right of appeal.

“As such, the club will make no further comment on this matter or recent LMA statements at this time.”

Speaking while working as a pundit during BBC Sport’s coverage of the FIFA Confederations Cup, Poyet revealed he had not been contacted by the club, meaning the first he knew of the decision was when he was informed by the BBC.

The Uruguayan admitted he was surprised by the decision and said he would appeal.