THE Newcastle Jets have parted company with coach Ernie Merrick, effective immediately.
Merrick, the A-League's most experienced coach, steered Newcastle to a grand final in 2017-18 but has struggled to produce results this season.
The Jets have lost four of their past five matches, including a 4-0 thumping from Melbourne Victory on Sunday, and are last on the A-League ladder.
Analysis: Ernie Merrick the latest victim of Newcastle's poisoned chalice
W-League coach Craig Deans and Merrick's assistant coach, Qiang Li, will act as interim coaches while Jets officials search for a full-time replacement.
"During Ernie's tenure, the Club reached its first grand final in more than 10 years and we're grateful for his contribution during his two-and-a half years in Newcastle," Jets CEO Lawrie McKinna said in a statement.
"However, results and performances haven't been good enough this season and a change was needed.
"On behalf of everyone at the club, I wish Ernie all the best in his future endeavours."
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