Wolves have sacked Vitor Pereira after a 10-game winless start to the Premier League season, weeks after he signed a new long-term contract. The Portuguese coach, who took charge in December, guided the club away from relegation trouble and finished 16th last season following a notable double over Manchester United. Matheus Cunha joined United in the summer, and Pereira signed a fresh deal on 16 September. Following Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at Fulham, the club decided to part company with him.

Executive chairman Jeff Shi said Pereira and his staff had worked hard to steer Wolves through a difficult period, but the start to this campaign has fallen short of expectations and a change was needed. The club thanked Pereira and his team for their efforts and wished them well for the future.

James Collins and Richard Walker will take training while a replacement is sought. Pereira’s relationship with the home crowd soured after a 3-2 defeat to Burnley, and a 3-0 defeat at Fulham left Wolves with eight defeats in ten league games, a development that prompted action. Pereira was told on Sunday morning that his tenure would end, and a clause in his new deal means he will not be paid for the full length of the contract. The manager posted on Instagram that it had been a privilege to lead the club and thanked the owners, players and staff, while wishing the club the best for the rest of the season.