Scunthorpe have confirmed that they have sacked manager Alan Knill, with Brian Laws returning to the club to replace him.
Saturday's home defeat to MK Dons left Scunthorpe four points adrift of safety in the League One table.
The loss was Scunthorpe's fifth in their last seven league games to leave them third from bottom.
The club's board have now decided to act and have axed Knill as they look to Laws to transform their fortunes.
Scunthorpe's official website confirmed the news on Monday in a statement.
"Scunthorpe United Football Club has today relieved Alan Knill of his first team duties with immediate effect.
"The difficult decision was made inevitable by the recent long run of disappointing performances, particularly at home.
"The club would like to thank Alan for his hard work and wish him well for the future.
"Brian Laws has been appointed manager with effect from tomorrow (Tuesday, October 30) and he will be assisted by Russ Wilcox. A management team which has previously brought success to the club.
"Chris Brass and Neil Cutler have agreed to stay on and discuss their future with the new manager.
"The board are delighted that Brian has returned to our club and feel confident that he will be able to restore the confidence to our talented squad of players and look forward to progressing quickly towards a more secure position in the league."
Knill, who took over at Glanford Park in March 2011, has endured a difficult time at the club winning just 14 of his 69 league games.
Laws replaces Knill having twice led the Iron to promotion during his time as manager before leaving for Sheffield Wednesday in 2006.
The 51-year-old, who is currently working as director of football at Shamrock Rovers, is a hugely popular figure with Scunthorpe fans.
