Poyet Reportedly Sacked By Sunderland

Sunderland have sacked head coach Gus Poyet in the wake of Saturday's 4-0 defeat to Aston Villa, according to Sky sources.

Villa were four goals up by half-time at the Stadium of Light, prompting large numbers of home supporters to walk out and a few to approach the home dug-out before security staff stepped in.

The result left Sunderland just a point clear of the relegation places, and they have won just once in the Premier League since Christmas.

Last month also brought an FA Cup defeat to league One side Bradford, and Poyet attended talks with club bosses on Monday to be told his time was up after less than 18 months in the job.

The Uruguayan, who succeeded Paolo Di Canio in October 2013, had earlier taken training for the final time.

Poyet oversaw a late escape from relegation last season as Sunderland won four straight games in April and May, but they are yet to record back-to-back league victories this season.

And that Bradford upset prompted Poyet to publish an open letter urging supporters "not to let anyone break our relationship".

Saturday's protests proved not all fans heeded that message, and the board has acted with nine games left for Sunderland to secure survival.