Nigel Adkins has been dismissed as manager of Southampton, who have replaced him with former Espanyol boss Mauricio Pochettino.
Adkins joined Southampton in September 2010 on a three-year contract when they were third from bottom in League One.
He guided them to back-to-back promotions, first to the Championship and then to the Premier League where they began the campaign with a 3-2 defeat at Manchester City.
However, they won plaudits for their enterprising approach, most recently in the 2-2 draw at Chelsea on Wednesday evening which saw them move three points clear of the relegation zone.
Southampton executive chairman Nicola Cortese said: "This decision has been made with the long-term ambitions of Southampton Football Club in mind.
"Whilst we acknowledge the contribution Nigel has made during the past two years, for the Club to progress and achieve our long-term targets a change was needed.
"Mauricio is a well-respected coach of substantial quality who has gained a reputation as an astute tactician and excellent man manager. I have every confidence that he will inspire our talented squad of players to perform at the highest possible level."
