End of the line for Jol as he is sacked from Fulham

Fulham have sacked manager Martin Jol after defeat at West Ham on Saturday extended their run of consecutive defeats to six games.

The club announced Rene Meulensteen would take over responsibility for the first team, stepping up to the top job having only been recruited last month as head coach to assist Jol.

Fulham were beaten 3-0 at Upton Park and after 13 games of the Premier League season they stand 18th, inside the relegation zone.

Fulham chairman Shahid Khan said in a statement on the club’s website: “Today I spoke with Martin to thank him for his efforts on behalf of Fulham Football Club over the past three seasons and, in particular, since my becoming chairman earlier this year.

“Martin was very gracious and I appreciate his understanding of the situation. There is no question Martin is an excellent football man and he has my utmost respect for the commitment he made to our club.

“However, our poor form and results this season are undeniable, and Fulham supporters deserve better. With more than half the season still ahead, an immediate change was necessary.”

Fulham's dismal run has included Premier League losses to Southampton, Manchester United, Liverpool, Swansea and West Ham, and a Capital Oner Cup exit at Leicester.

Many supporters had been on Jol’s back, calling for change, and Khan decided the London derby loss marked breaking point.

Jol’s fellow Dutchman Meulensteen spent many years at Manchester United, initially working within the club’s academy but graduating to become first-team coach under Sir Alex Ferguson in 2008, a post he held until the Scot retired at the end of last season.

A short stint in charge of Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala followed, and Meulensteen was strongly linked with Crystal Palace before Tony Pulis took over at Selhurst Park.

“Rene Meulensteen was brought to Fulham to assist Martin and today was offered the challenge and opportunity to step in for Martin,” Khan said.

“I thank Rene for accepting and now we move forward. I have great confidence in Rene and high expectations for our squad to respond.”