Port Vale have parted company with manager Darren Moore following Friday’s 5-0 loss to Huddersfield Town, a result that left the club rooted to the bottom of League One.
The heavy defeat was Vale’s seventh in their last nine league matches and leaves them seven points adrift at the foot of the table, 10 points from safety after 21 games.
The Valiants have not picked up a league victory since their 1-0 win at Barnsley on 27 September, a run now stretching to 12 matches.
In a statement, the club said the decision was taken reluctantly but felt the time was right for change.
Vale added they had given Moore time and backing in the hope results would improve, but ultimately believed a new direction was needed in the club’s long-term interests.
Moore was appointed in February last year on a lengthy contract while Vale were already battling relegation in League One.
Despite his efforts, only two wins from the final 17 games saw the club drop into League Two.
The 49-year-old oversaw an immediate return to the third tier last season as Vale finished second in League Two, but the step back up has proved challenging.
A run of three straight wins in September briefly lifted spirits, but league form quickly tailed off, with recent success limited to cup competitions.
Speaking after his departure, Moore said he was disappointed the campaign had not gone to plan and thanked the players, staff and supporters for their support.
He also reflected fondly on last season’s promotion, describing it as a moment he would always cherish.
Port Vale have confirmed a search for a new manager is under way.
In the meantime, first-team coach Jamie Smith will take charge for Monday’s trip to Bradford City on 29 December.
