Heart of Midlothian have been forced to release Billy Brown from his assistant manager role because of pay issues.
The Jambos had former Falkirk, Bradford City, Kilmarnock and Hibernian number two contracted until the end of January but he will now finish up on January 19.
"We would like to put on record our gratitude to Billy for his sterling efforts in helping Gary Locke since his arrival in July," read a club statement.
"He has been of considerable assistance to Hearts over the last six months and we know he appreciates the need to refresh the team coupled with the need for continued financial prudence. We wish him well in the future."
Brown added: "I am very disappointed my contract will not be renewed but that is the way things are at the club and I have to accept that.
"I urge all supporters to get behind Gary and the team for the remainder of the season and would like to thank everybody who has helped me in my third spell at Hearts, especially the players and staff whose spirit remains remarkable."
