Manager’s departure comes after poor start to the season leaves Villa near the relegation zone.

Aston Villa have dismissed manager Steven Gerrard, just hours after a crushing 3-0 loss to Fulham. The defeat, which saw Villa finish the match with a red card, an own goal, and a conceded penalty, left the team languishing just above the relegation zone with only two wins in their first 11 games of the season.

Gerrard, who took charge of the club less than a year ago after a successful spell at Rangers, was given the sack despite his earlier promise. The club released a brief statement thanking him for his “hard work and commitment” and wishing him well in the future.

Following the loss at Craven Cottage, Gerrard remained defiant, telling reporters: “I’m a fighter, I will never quit anything. But the reality is that it’s not good enough for this club.” Within the hour, however, the club made the decision to part ways with the 41-year-old.

The search for his replacement has already begun, with former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino emerging as a leading contender. The club’s owners are reportedly keen to secure a top-tier coach, with Pochettino, a popular figure, being eyed as the ideal candidate. Another name in the frame is Thomas Tuchel, who was dismissed by Chelsea earlier in the season and is eager to return to Premier League management.