Bryan Robson is out as manager of West Bromwich Albion.
The League Championship club announced Robson's firing yesterday, just two days after West Brom gave up a late goal and stumbled to a 1-1 draw against Southend.
"After much deliberation, and in view of the results since early 2006, it has been decided a change is necessary if the club is to achieve its aims for this season and beyond," chairman Jeremy Peace said in a statement.
Assistant Nigel Pearson will manage the club in today's League Cup game against Cheltenham.
West Brom was relegated from the Premier League after last season, but was expected to be among the top clubs this season in the League Championship.
Instead, the Baggies are in ninth place through eight games -- five points behind Cardiff and Birmingham City.
"This is a very important time for West Brom," Pearce said "With promotion a priority, the board felt that given the club's current league position, the best way forward was to agree to make a change now."
Robson, a former England and Manchester United captain, took over at West Brom in November 2004. He has also managed at Middlesbrough and Bradford.
An outstanding player, Robson's managerial record has been spotty.
His best moment at West Brom came in the final game of the 2004-2005 season. The 2-0 victory over Portsmouth kept the Baggies in the Premier League and avoided relegation. It was also the first time a Premier League team had escaped from relegation despite being in last place at Christmas.
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