Reading manager Steve Clarke has been relieved of his duties after less than 12 months in the job.
Clarke was appointed by the Championship club in December of last year, securing their second-tier status while also leading them to a first FA Cup semifinal for 88 years during his first season.
However, following Thursday's 1-0 defeat to Queens Park Rangers, Reading have opted to dismiss the Scot, who held talks with Fulham in mid-November about replacing Kit Symons -- a job that still remains available.
Clarke's assistant Kevin Keen has also left the club, with under-21s manager Martin Kuhl taking temporary charge of the first team.
"The board of Reading Football Club have this morning relieved manager Steve Clarke of his duties," a Reading statement read.
"The club met with Steve in person earlier today and we would like to place on permanent record our thanks to him for his hard work and diligence since his appointment in December 2014.
CLUB STATEMENT: The board of Reading Football Club have this morning relieved Manager Steve Clarke of his duties. https://t.co/6dVdmzyCYT
- Reading FC (@ReadingFC) December 4, 2015
"Following Thursday night's defeat at home to QPR, added to a recent run of poor form which has seen the team pick up just one win in the last eight Championship fixtures, the board feel that a change in manager is now necessary."
The statement added: "The board of Reading Football Club are committed to taking this club forward and will immediately begin the recruitment process in search of a new manager."
Despite holding talks with Fulham, Clarke later came out to say that he had turned down a move to Craven Cottage, opting to instead commit himself to Reading.
The Royals looked primed for a promotion push after a fine start to this season, but their recent slump has seen them slip to ninth.
In total, former West Bromwich Albion manager Clarke presided over 53 games, winning 19, drawing 14 and losing 20.
Former Leicester boss Nigel Pearson has been mentioned as one of the early frontrunners to succeed Clarke.
Information from the Press Association was used in this report.