Oxford United have sacked head coach Gary Rowett with the club sitting in the Championship relegation zone.

Rowett had been in charge of the U's for one year and three days by the time his departure was announced on Tuesday.

The 51-year-old kept Oxford in the second tier upon replacing Des Buckingham at the Kassam Stadium last season.

However, Oxford are 22nd in the Championship table after losing 12 and winning just four of their 22 matches so far this campaign.

Saturday's 1-0 loss to Charlton Athletic proved to be Rowett's final game, with the club thanking him for his services.

Rowett's assistant Mark Sale has also departed, with Craig Short placed in temporary charge alongside Chris Hackett and Lewis Price.

Chairman Grant Ferguson said: "Gary joined during a challenging period and deserves immense credit for the hard work and leadership that saw us retain our Championship status last season. 

"However, following a disappointing run of results, we have had to take this difficult decision in the best interests of the club. 

"On behalf of the board, I would like to place on record our thanks to Gary and Mark for their contribution to the club and to wish them all the best for the future."

Oxford are back in action on Friday with a home match against 11th-placed Southampton.