Middlesbrough confirm Aitor Karanka exit following poor run of results

Despite chairman Steve Gibson's well-known loyalty to his managers, it seemed only a matter of time before a change was made.

Aitor Karanka has left his post as Middlesbrough head coach following the club's slide into the Premier League relegation zone.

The 43-year-old Spaniard departed on Thursday morning with Boro 19th in the table having not won in 10 league outings since December 17, and scoring only three goals in the process.