Hearts have sacked manager Steven Naismith with the side bottom of the William Hill Premiership.
It brings to end the 38-year old’s 17-month spell in the dugout.
Naismith led Hearts to a third place finish last season but has not recorded a single victory in his six league matches this season, with the side also dumped out of the Premier Sports Cup by Championship side Falkirk last month.
Hearts CEO Andrew McKinlay said: “I’d like to firstly thank Steven, Gordon and Frankie for all their efforts over the past year and a half. They worked tirelessly in their roles and without them we would not have enjoyed the successes of last season.
“However, things can change quickly, particularly in football, and it has been clear for all to see that things are not working this season. Results and performances have fallen below the standards expected at this football club and, unfortunately, there is little evidence of any potential upturn in fortunes.
“With our UEFA Conference League campaign about to commence, and the spotlight on our league position, we cannot afford to stand still. That is why we, as a Board of Directors, have made the difficult decision to part ways with the management team, who go with our thanks and best wishes.
“We will update supporters shortly about next steps in both the short and long term but for now, the club shall be making no further comment at this time.”
