Miroslav Djukic has been sacked as head coach of Valencia after less than six months in charge.

The 47-year-old, who took over from Ernesto Valverde in the summer, was officially relieved of his duties earlier this afternoon, before a press conference in Valencia confirmed the news.

"We are here to announce the removal of Miroslav Djukic. For my part, I have nothing more to say," club president Amadeo Salvo told reporters at a press conference.

Djukic added: "As a professional, it is a decision that I do not understand, but I respect it. I wish good luck to the president and to the union of everyone to take the club forward."

Djukic oversaw a 3-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid at the weekend, with that result leaving the Mestalla outfit in ninth position in the La Liga table.

Nico Estevez has been placed in caretaker charge, but it is believed that the club will appoint a permanent replacement before the end of the month.