Everton have confirmed the departure of Frank Lampard as manager.
The 44-year-old has been sacked after less than a year in charge at Goodison Park, with the club embroiled in a relegation battle for a second successive season.
News of Lampard’s fate was widely reported from mid-afternoon on Monday but was not officially announced by the club until after 8pm.
A statement read: “Everton Football Club can confirm that Frank Lampard has left his post as senior men’s first-team manager today.
“Everyone at Everton would like to thank Frank and his coaching staff for their service during what has been a challenging 12 months.”
Lampard leaves Goodison Park with the club 19th in the Premier League after a run of nine defeats in 12 games. He won just nine and lost 21 of his 38 Premier League matches and his sacking comes eight days before the first anniversary of his appointment.
The statement added: “Frank and his team’s commitment and dedication have been exemplary throughout their time at the club, but recent results and the current league position meant this difficult decision had to be taken. We wish Frank and all his backroom team well for their future in the game.
“The club has started the process to secure a new manager and will provide updates on the appointment in due course.”
Backroom staff members Joe Edwards, Paul Clement, Ashley Cole and Chris Jones have also left, but Alan Kelly will remain as goalkeeping coach.
Paul Tait and Leighton Baines will oversee training until a new manager is appointed.
