Southampton sack manager Pardew

Southampton on Monday fired manager Alan Pardew only 48 hours after the League One side dished out a 4-0 beating to Bristol Rovers.

The Saints had started the season as favourites to gain promotion to the Championship but are lying 14th in the table after the one win over Rovers from their first three matches.

A statement issued by the south coast club explained: “Following a review of the current status in and around the first team, the club has decided that, to achieve its well known targets, it is essential to make changes to the first team management and coaching.

“These targets for sustained and significant progress embrace both the first team and the football development and support centre as integrated, co-operative units.

“Consequently, the first team manager Alan Pardew, first team coach Wally Downes and goalkeeping coach Stuart Murdoch have been relieved of their duties with immediate effect. We wish them well for the future.”

Dean Wilkins will serve as caretaker manager until a permanent replacement for Pardew is found, the club said.

Southampton added: “We recognise that frequent changes to the football management are unlikely to assist in the winning of trophies and promotions.

“However, we are taking these steps to achieve our aims, which we share with all supporters, to get promoted this season, and secure long term stability and progress for our football operations.”