Struggling Burnley have sacked Sean Dyche with just eight games remaining in a last-gasp bid to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The Clarets head to West Ham on Sunday four points behind 17th-placed Everton. 

And chairman Alan Pace has explained why the club decided there was no choice but to axe their long-serving manager. 

Pace said: "Firstly, we would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Sean and his staff for their achievements at the club over the last decade. 

"During his time at Turf Moor, Sean has been a credit both on and off the pitch, respected by players, staff, supporters and the wider football community.

"However, results this season have been disappointing and, while this was an incredibly difficult decision, we feel a change is needed to give the squad the best possible chance of retaining our Premier League status. 

"Under-23s coach Mike Jackson, academy director Paul Jenkins, Under-23s goalkeeping coach Connor King and club captain Ben Mee have been asked to take charge of the team for Sunday’s game with West Ham. 

"The process of replacing Sean has begun and further announcements will be made to supporters in due course."

Dyche, 50, was the longest-serving manager in the Premier League, having been in charge of the Clarets for nine-and-a-half years. 

During his time at Turf Moor, Burnley were twice promoted from the Championship, achieved two top-half Premier League finishes and qualified for Europe for the first time in 51 years.

Assistant manager Ian Woan, first-team coach Steve Stone and goalkeeping coach Billy Mercer have also left the club.