Breaking News: Fulham Sacks Martin Jol

Martin Jol has been sacked by Fulham, with head coach Rene Meulensteen taking responsibility for the first team.
Jol had been in charge since June 2011 and his dismissal comes on the back of five straight Premier League defeats that leaves Fulham 18th in the table.

“Today I spoke with Martin to thank him for his efforts on behalf of Fulham Football Club over the past three seasons and, in particular, since my becoming Chairman earlier this year,” Fulham chairman Shahid Khan in a statement. “Martin was very gracious and I appreciate his understanding of the situation. There is no question Martin is an excellent football man and he has my utmost respect for the commitment he made to our Club.

“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.” Khan said.

Jol expressed appreciation on Sunday for his time at Motspur Park and Craven Cottage since arriving at Fulham in 2011.

“It was a privilege to manage Fulham, one of the great clubs in the Premier League or anywhere in the world,” Jol said. “I’m disappointed but there are better days ahead for Fulham.”

Khan acted following a 3-0 defeat at West Ham on Saturday, a game in which the Cottagers failed to register a single shot on target.

Meulensteen, 49, will now take charge of the team for Wednesday’s match with Tottenham at Craven Cottage.
He was appointed as head coach of Fulham on 13 November after a spell at Manchester United, where he worked alongside Sir Alex Ferguson between 2007 and last summer.

“Rene Meulensteen was brought to Fulham to assist Martin and today was offered the challenge and opportunity to step in for Martin,” Khan said. “I thank Rene for accepting and now we move forward. I have great confidence in Rene and high expectations for our squad to respond.”

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