Ernesto Valverde has been sacked as Villarreal coach.

Valverde was axed following yesterday's 2-0 Primera Division defeat at home to Osasuna, the club have announced.

Valverde only took over at Villarreal in the summer following Manuel Pellegrini's departure to Real Madrid.

However, the Yellow Submarine, who finished fifth last year, have had a disappointing season and are 10th in the table following Sunday's loss.

A statement on the club website read: "Villarreal have cancelled their contract with coach Ernesto Valverde after the defeat picked up at El Madrigal against Osasuna (0-2).

"In the hope of confirmation of a new coach, the club thank the coach from Extremadura for his services and wish him the best of luck in his sporting career."

Villarreal have been linked with former Getafe coach Michael Laudrup and the club added they will confirm Valverde's replacement in the next few days.