Fulham sack manager Jol

London, Dec 2 (IANS) English Premier League football club Fulham have sacked manager Martin Jol and replaced him with his deputy Rene Meulensteen.

Fulham Chairman Shahid Khan in a statement released Sunday said that team's poor form and results prompted the club management to sack the Dutchman, reports Xinhua. 

"There's no question Martin is an excellent football man and he has my utmost respect for the commitment he made to our club," said Khan.

"However, our poor form and results this season are undeniable, and Fulham supporters deserve better. With more than half the season still ahead, an immediate change was necessary."

Jol was appointed the manager at Fulham in June 2011. He succeeded in steering the London club stand solid in the English top-flight in the last two seasons.

But the recent five straight league defeats left his side struggling at 18th in the table, ahead of Crystal Palace and Sunderland. All three teams in the relegation zone have so far changed their managers in this season.

Jol said: "I'm disappointed in this season but know there are better days ahead for Fulham and its supporters."

Meulensteen, who worked alongside Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford between 2007 and last summer, was appointed to assist Jol, Nov 13.

Meulensteen said: "I appreciate the faith Mr Khan has put in me and will do my very best to honour his trust. We aim to get Fulham back on track, starting Wednesday night."