The former Blackburn, Lincoln and Oxford manager was appointed last summer for his second spell in charge, following a short stint at the club during the 2012/13 season which was cut short when he left to join Rovers.

That first spell and his links with local rivals Preston North End where he spent several years as a player meant Appleton faced an uphill battle with the Tangerines' supporters.

With the club now mired in a relegation battle after only one Championship win in eleven games, the club have decided to act. In a statement on the club's website they said,

"Blackpool Football Club has today relieved Michael Appleton of his duties as Head Coach.

Assistant Head Coach David Kerslake will also be leaving with Michael.

The Club would like to thank Michael and David for their efforts during their time at Bloomfield Road and wish them all the best for the future.

The Club hope to be able to announce a new Head Coach in the coming days."

Blackpool's next game is against relegation rivals Huddersfield with both teams level on points and three adrift of safety.