Sunderland have sacked manager Paolo Di Canio just five matches into the 2013/14 Premier League season.
The Italian has seen the Black Cats produce just one draw, accompanied by four losses, and has now been given his marching orders by the Stadium of Light club.
"Sunderland AFC confirms that it has parted company with head coach Paolo Di Canio this evening," read a club statement.
"Kevin Ball will take charge of the squad ahead of Tuesday night's Capital One Cup game against Peterborough United and an announcement will be made in due course regarding a permanent successor.
"The club would like to place on record its thanks to Paolo and his staff and wishes them well for the future."
Di Canio took the reins on Wearside in March this year but less than six months later has been moved on.
