Gary Megson has been sacked by Sheffield Wednesday.
The axe fell after he had a turbulent 12 months in the hotseat.
Owls chairman Milan Mandaric was rumoured to have an uneasy relationship with the ex-Bolton Wanderers and West Bromwich Albion boss.
Mandaric said: "It was a tough decision, but one that has been taken with the best interests of Sheffield Wednesday at heart. We've 13 games to go of what is a critical season for us.
"This decision has been taken because I believe we've a better chance of promotion by making the change." Megson was furious last week over speculation Mandaric held talks with former Wolves and Cardiff chief Dave Jones.
