Valencia have sacked head coach Javi Gracia after the Spanish side dropped to within six points of the relegation zone following Sunday’s loss to Barcelona.

Gracia had been in charge for just 10 months and departs having won just eight games this season.

A statement said: “The club wants to publicly thank [Gracia] for his work and dedication during these months leading the team and wishes him the best of success for the future.”

The six-time Spanish champions are currently 14th in the table with four fixtures left to play.

Assistant manager Salvador Gonzalez ‘Voro’ will lead the first team on a provisional basis.