Slade sacked by Brighton

Brighton have sacked manager Russell Slade following a poor start to the season.

The former Yeovil boss has been relieved of his duties just eight months after replacing Micky Adams at the League One club.

Assistant manager Dean White and first-team coach Bob Booker have also left the club, with Martin Hinshelwood taking over as caretaker manager.

Slade was appointed in March on a contract until the end of the season and was rewarded with a two-year deal after ensuring the club avoided relegation.

However, Albion are hovering just one place above the drop zone following Saturday's 3-3 draw with Hartlepool and chairman Tony Bloom felt it was the right time for a change.

Bloom told the club's official website, www.seagulls.co.uk: "It is not a decision we have taken lightly and one taken with a heavy heart.

"Russell is a good man, which made it an even harder decision to take, but it is one which has been made in the club's best interests.

"Like all Albion fans I am extremely grateful for Russell's achievements at the end of last season, as he kept us in League One against the odds."