Fulham sack manager Claudio Ranieri

Claudio Ranieri, who less than three years ago was the hero of the English Premiership after leading lowly Leicester City to the title, has parted ways with struggling Fulham.

Ranieri, who was sacked by Leicester City barely six months after leading them to the Premiership title, was recruited by Fulham to steady their ship following a poor start to the season. But the job seemed too difficult forb even a manager as experienced as the Italian.

Fulham are now 10 points off safety after a seventh defeat in their last eight league games

Speaking yesterday before Ranieri’s departure was confirmed, Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney said they have struggled for momentum after making 12 new signings in the summer.

Fulham chairman, Shahid Khan has explained the decision to part ways with Ranieri.

“Following our discussion this afternoon, Claudio Ranieri agreed to my decision that a change was in the best interest of everyone. No surprise to me, Claudio was a perfect gentleman, as always.

“Claudio’s tenure at Fulham didn’t produce the outcome we anticipated and needed when I appointed him as manager in November, but be assured he is not solely to blame for the position we are in today.

“Claudio walked into a difficult situation, inheriting a side that gained only one point in its prior eight matches, and he provided an immediate boost by leading our club to nine points in his first eight matches as Manager.

“Though we were unable to maintain that pace thereafter, I am grateful for his effort. Claudio leaves Fulham as our friend and he will undoubtedly experience success again soon.”

In a statement yesterday, Ranieri thanked the club for given him the opportunity to serve them, adding, however, “I am obviously disappointed with the recent results and that we could not build on the good start we made following my appointment.

“Finally, I would like to thank the club, the players and the fans for the support they have given me during my time at the club.”

Former Fulham midfielder, Scott Parker, who was Ranieri’s assistant, takes caretaker charge.

Shahid Khan said: “Scott’s immediate assignment is merely to help us stabilise, grow and rediscover ourselves as a football club.

“If Scott can answer that challenge, and our players respond to the opportunity, perhaps victories will follow in the months ahead.

“What’s most important at this moment, however, is to regroup in a smart and deliberate manner that will serve our long-term vision for sustainable success.

“If we’re able to do that and win some matches to make a stand late in the season, all the better.”