Chris Powell sacked by Huddersfield Town

The Londoner, 46, has become the fifth managerial casualty in the Championship this term and is the fifth Yorkshire boss to leave a club already this term - following the departures of Uwe Rosler, Steve Evans, Russ Wilcox and Paul Dickov.

Powell’s final game in charge came in last night’s 2-2 draw at Reading, with his assistant Alex Dyer also set to leave the club.

Powell was appointed as Town boss in succession to Mark Robins in September 2014.

The former Charlton manager presided over just three league wins from 15 games this season, while seeing Jacob Butterfield and Alex Smithies sold for big-money moves to Derby County and QPR respectively.

It is understood that the decision in not down purely to first-team results, but the wider development of the club.

In a club statement, Huddersfield chief executive Nigel Clibbens said: “We have decided to make this change after very careful deliberation. It is made with the long-term interests of the Club in mind. It signals a change of direction by the club and a new approach.

“Chris worked to represent Huddersfield Town to the best of his ability; to develop us, improve us and take us forward. He now leaves us well-placed for the future challenges ahead.

“With his skills and qualities as a person, it won’t be too long before Chris finds a new challenge and we wish him success when that comes.

“We would like to thank Chris and Alex and give them our best wishes for the future.”

Academy manager Mark Lillis will now take charge for the Yorkshire derby against Leeds United this Saturday, with assistance from first team coach Steve Eyre and development coach Frankie Bunn.