OFFICIAL: Claude Puel sacked by Leicester City after 4-1 thrashing

Leicester City has parted company with Claude Puel, who leaves his position as First Team Manager with immediate effect.

An official statement said: 'The Club would like to thank Claude for his efforts in leading the team during his 16 months in the role and wish him well in his future career.'

'Assistant Manager Jacky Bonnevay also departs with the Club’s best wishes.'

'First Team Coaches Mike Stowell and Adam Sadler, supported by the Club’s established backroom staff, will assume responsibility for the senior squad while the Club begins the process of appointing a new manager.'

'The Board will make no further comment until this process is complete.'

The Frenchman has been handed his marching orders by Foxes chiefs following Saturday's 4-1 thrashing by Crystal Palace.

Puel has won just four of 13 games at the King Power Stadium, losing seven - including the last four in succession.

Now, with Leicester having fallen to 12th in the table, the ex-Southampton boss has been axed.

It is understood that Celtic chief Brendan Rodgers is favourite to take over at the King Power Stadium.

Puel was a surprise appointment for many when he replaced Craig Shakespeare in October 2017.

He was backed by the club's hierachy to splash the cash last summer, bringing in attacking full-back Ricardo Pereira and James Maddison.

Jonny Evans, Danny Ward, Rachid Ghezzal, Caglar Soyuncu and Filip Benkovic also moved to Leicester, totalling £89million.