Jean Fernandez has announced his decision to step down as head coach of Ligue 1 outfit Montpellier HSC.

The 59-year-old has taken the step while the former French champions currently sit five points away from the bottom three in the table.

"It's a difficult situation, and I think the interests of the club come before that of the coach," Ligue1.com quotes Fernandez as saying.

"That has always been my philosophy, and as a consequence of that, I have taken this decision."

Fernandez has overseen just two victories in the club's last 34 league matches.