Aston Villa have sacked manager Roberto Di Matteo after just one win from their opening 12 matches this season.
Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Preston left Villa 19th in the Championship despite a summer of spending under new owner Tony Xia following relegation.
Di Matteo was brought in as the permanent successor to Remi Garde, but the Italian’s reign is over after just four months. Steve Clarke will take charge until a new manager is appointed.
A club statement read: “Aston Villa Football Club has today parted company with manager Roberto Di Matteo.
“The Club decided to act following a run of disappointing results which has the left the team occupying 19th position in the Championship.
“The Club would like to place on record its appreciation to Roberto for all his efforts in helping rebuild the squad and wish him well for the future.”