Struggling Southend United sack manager Chris Powell

Southend United have parted company with manager Chris Powell after eleven games without victory in League One.

The Essex side have dramatically fallen down the table following a series of injuries and are above the relegation zone on just goal difference.

The Blues sit in 20th in the League standings and, after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Peterborough United, have taken just four points from the last 33 on offer.

Powell was appointed as Blues boss in January 2018 and has won 24 of his 66 games in charge; however, a club statement said that the team’s recent dip in form and the severe threat of relegation meant change was necessary.

“It is with regret that the club has this morning terminated Chris Powell’s contract.

“The results over a number of weeks, 11 games without a win, has impacted all concerned and immediate changes needed to be made.

“The club’s interests are paramount but the board are nevertheless disappointed to see Chris Powell leave.

“Head of the club’s highly successful academy, Ricky Duncan, will take temporary charge of the first team squad.”

Southend, who have also been beaten by the League’s then-basement club AFC Wimbledon, host Shrewsbury this weekend before matches against Fleetwood, Wycombe, Walsall, Burton Albion and Rochdale before ending the season at home to Sunderland.