Sunderland sacks manager

Sunderland have sacked manager Gus Poyet in the wake of Saturday's humiliating 4-0 defeat at home to Aston Villa.

The result leaves the Black Cats one point and one place above the drop zone and owner Ellis Short believes a change of manager is needed to avoid relegation.

Poyet was informed of the club's decision having taken training at the Academy of Light on Monday morning.

Poyet leaves the Tyneside club after 17 months in charge.

His position had become untenable after a breakdown in relationship with the club's fans, thousands of whom streamed for the exits with the team trailing by four at half-time against Villa.

A handful of supporters even tried to storm the dugout while some targeted the directors' box.

Holland boss Dick Advocaat has already spoken to the club about a short-term deal until the end of the season and he could be installed before Saturday's trip to West Ham.

A statement on the club's website confirmed the news on Monday afternoon.

"I would like to thank Gus for his endeavours during his time at the club, in particular last season's 'great escape' and cup final appearance, which will live long in the memory of every Sunderland fan.

"Sadly, we have not made the progress that any of us had hoped for this season and we find ourselves battling, once again, at the wrong end of the table. We have therefore made the difficult decision that a change is needed," Ellis said in a statment.