Gus Poyet has been sacked by Sunderland.

The Black Cats manager has paid the price for a disastrous run of form that has seen his side win just once in their last 12 top flight games.

Last Saturday's 4-0 defeat by Aston Villa at the Stadium of Light has left the club just one point clear of the relegation zone.

Slightly disappointed that Poyet wasn't sacked live on TV like last time... https://t.co/FJ7ayFcXOW @markchapman

— Nooruddean (@BeardedGenius) March 16, 2015

Sunderland chairman Ellis Short said: "I would like to thank Gus for his endeavours during his time at the club, in particular last season's 'great escape' and cup final appearance, which will live long in the memory of every Sunderland fan.

"Sadly, we have not made the progress that any of us had hoped for this season and we find ourselves battling, once again, at the wrong end of the table. We have therefore made the difficult decision that a change is needed."