Hartlepool United have sacked manager Paul Murray following their shock FA Cup second round exit at home to Blyth Spartans - after just 45 days in charge.
The 38-year-old former Pools midfielder had just seven games in the Victoria Park hot-seat having taken over from Colin Cooper.Murray oversaw five defeats, one win and a draw during his brief reign with the club, who sit bottom of Sky Bet League 2 and six points adrift of safety.
Assistant manager Willie Donachie has also left, with Sam Collins placed in temporary charge.
A statement on the club's official website read: " Hartlepool United can announce that manager Paul Murray and assistant manager Willie Donachie have been released from their contracts.
"Sam Collins has been placed in temporary charge of first-team affairs.
"The club will be making no further comment at this time."