Former Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy has been sacked as the manager of Sunderland.
McCarthy, who guided the club to promotion last season - leaves with the club eight points adrift at the foot of the Barclays Premiership.
Sunderland chairman Bob Murray told the club's website: "I would like to thank Mick McCarthy for his efforts for the club and wish him and his family the best for the future."
Murray intends to appoint a caretaker manager to take charge in the remaining 10 matches this season and will make a decision regarding a permanent appointment at a later date.
Sunderland have won just two games all season, garnering 10 points from 27 games, and Murray said: "As chairman I take responsibility for what has proven to be an unsuccessful and heartbreaking season, despite the best intentions, efforts and expectations of every one at the club.
"I feel deeply sorry that the excitement, optimism and aspirations of all Sunderland fans looking forward to a return to the Premier League have been rewarded in this way and I apologise for this.
"It is especially tough on supporters who have turned out in numbers week-in week-out, despite seeing so little to raise their spirits.
It is hard to see such loyalty unrewarded and I am sorry that performances and results have not mirrored the tremendous level of support that the club has been given.
"The club did not return to the Premiership just to make up the numbers and whilst we fully expected it to be a tough first season back, none of us expected to be in the position we are today."
Meanwhile, Kevin Ball has been confirmed as Sunderland caretaker manager until the end of the season.
Ball, a tough-tackling midfielder during his playing career with the club, is currently Academy assistant manager.
Ball, will be in charge of the remaining 10 games of the season as Sunderland look for an improbable escape from relegation to the Coca-Cola Championship.
