SWANSEA City have sacked head coach Russell Martin's replacement Michael Duff with the club sitting 18th in the Championship.

The 45-year-old departs South Wales following a winless run of five games and just one win from their last eight after their recent 1-1 draw against Huddersfield.

Duff was appointed in June, having led Barnsley to the Sky Bet League One play-off final last term, after Martin was headhunted by Saints following their Championship return.

Assistant head coach Martin Paterson follows Duff out of the exit door with immediate effect, while fellow assistant head coach Alan Sheehan will take interim caretaker charge.

Swansea chairman Andy Coleman released a statement on the club’s website, which read: “This was a very difficult decision and one that was given considerable thought and attention.

“I acknowledge that there has been a significant amount of change at the club during Michael’s tenure. I consistently asked for patience as we gave him time to implement his plans.

“Unfortunately, we have seen neither the results that we expect nor the progress from the squad that we need. I believe it is now in the best interests to make a change of head coach.”

Saints are due to face Martin's former side, Swansea, this month, when they visit St Mary's on Boxing Day. 

Sunderland also sacked head coach Tony Mowbray, the Championship club announced, just hours after Duff's dismissal. 

Mowbray’s departure comes two days after his side’s 1-1 draw at Millwall that extended their poor recent run to one win from their last five games.

Sunderland, who have also parted company with Mowbray’s assistant Mark Venus, confirmed that coach Mike Dodds will take over pending the appointment of a new head coach. 

Sunderland defeated Southampton 5-0 at the Stadium of Light to plunge Martin's side into an eventual four-match losing run, following the conclusion of the summer transfer window.