Sunderland have sacked manager Martin O'Neill after defeat at home to Manchester United.
Sunderland are just a point clear of the Barclays Premier League relegation zone with seven games left to play.
A club statement said: "Sunderland AFC has announced that it has parted company with manager Martin O'Neill this evening.
"The club would like to place on record its thanks to Martin and wishes him well for the future.
"An announcement will be made in the coming days regarding a successor."