Bournemouth sack Gary O'Neil despite Premier League survival

The shock decision comes after a return of 10 wins and six draws in the Premier League, which was enough to maintain the club's position in the top flight, effectively securing survival with four matches remaining following a memorable run of results in April.

O'Neil took over as interim boss following the sacking of Scott Parker in August after a dismal run of results that included a 9-0 drubbing against Liverpool.

The former player was given an 18-month deal in November and despite a slow start, results picked up and a string of impressive displays saw the Cherries comfortably retain their Premier League status.

Such was the achievement, many saw O'Neil as an outside contender for the manager of the season award.

In a club statement, AFC Bournemouth owner and chairman Bill Foley explained: "Gary's achievement last season is one I will always be grateful for. This has been a difficult decision, but it has been made with great consideration to best position ourselves ahead of the coming season.

"As a club, we have put plans in place for long-term success with improvements being made to infrastructure, most notably the development of a new state-of-the-art training facility and the ongoing discussions around upgrades to our stadium.

"We have also identified a number of significant targets in the transfer market this summer and believe this change in direction will provide us with the best platform from which to build.

"Gary will go on to have a long career as a head coach or manager, but we feel that, at this moment in time, a change is in the best interests of this football club. I would like to place on record my thanks to Gary and wish him all the best for the future."

Bournemouth have since announced the appointment of former Rayo Vallecano manager Andoni Iraola as their new head coach on a two-year deal.