Wigan Athletic have sacked former Arsenal and Manchester City star Kolo Toure after losing nine games.

Toure was only appointed Wigan Athletic manager back in November on a three-and-a-half-year deal, in his first managerial appointment.

The Ivorian was tasked with steering Wigan out of the relegation zone, but instead, things have only gotten worse, with the club now bottom of the Championship and four points from safety.

Wigan got just two points from seven league games under Toure and were eliminated from the FA Cup after a third-round replay against Luton Town.

“Firstly, I would like to thank Kolo [Toure], along with Kevin and Ashvir, for their efforts during their time at the football club,” a statement from Malachy Brannigan, Chief Executive of Wigan, on Thursday read.

“Unfortunately, the results on the field have not been as we would have liked, and as tough a decision as this was, the board felt it necessary to give us the best possible chance of remaining a Championship club next season."

“Therefore, we will now work swiftly and effectively to ensure the right person is appointed as the next permanent manager of Wigan Athletic, with the immediate objective of remaining in the Second Division for next season.”