Huddersfield Town manager Chris Powell has had his contract terminated after just 14 months in charge.
The Terriers have won just three times all season, but his sacking comes on the back of a valuable point away at Reading on Tuesday night and with the West Yorkshire Derby against Leeds United on Saturday lunchtime.
Despite this record, Huddersfield sit five points above the drop and have looked fairly comfortable all season. The club were quick to point out that this was not a decision based on results, but based on the objectives going forward.
Huddersfield supporters have become increasingly critical of Powell's 'negative' style of play in which he aims to achieve defensive stability, removing attacking threat for the most part.
That said, they twice took the lead at high-flyers Reading last night and looked completely rejuvenated. One can only assume Huddersfield had already made the decision.
He leaves with a win ratio of 25.87%, Town having claimed 15 wins from 58 games, with 21 draws and 22 losses.
Nigel Clibbens speaks
Huddersfield Town Chief Executive issued the following comments.
"We've thought long & hard & think we need to go down different path. Chris is a good man & accepted our decision with good grace."
Clibbens did admit the club have had a "difficult time" with players leaving, but said they wanted to do more than just survive.
"We need every manager here to develop young players. Eventually you've got to take a risk and give these guys a go."
When talking about a new appointment, Clibbens said the club are looking for someone to "create a bit of an X-Factor" and "fit in with the development angle."
He went on to admit that the appointment would be quick and may raise a few eyebrows, though Mark Lillis of the academy will take charge of Saturday's game against Leeds.
Search for a new man
There are plenty of managers available for the Yorkshire club to take a punt on.
Uwe Rosler has been mentioned, although with him having just left neighbours Leeds after a poor spell in charge it would be difficult to see that happen.
It appears the fans want to see Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink poached from Burton Albion. They sit 2nd in League One with 10 wins from their opening 16 games, and have been singled out as playing some very attractive football.
