Alan Pardew has been sacked as West Ham manager after a string of defeats. The club's new chairman Eggert Magnusson said a new appointment was likely before the January transfer window.

West Ham said in a statement: "West Ham United have today announced the departure from the club of Alan Pardew.

"Alan has made an important contribution since joining as manager in September 2003 but this season's results have been disappointing and have left the club in a very difficult position.

"The chairman, Mr Eggert Magnusson, and the board have been concerned by the performances of recent weeks and feel that it is the right time to make a change in the best interests of the club.

"The search for a successor is now under way in order that a new manager can be in place ahead of the January transfer window.

"First-team coach Kevin Keen will take temporary charge of team affairs until a new appointment has been made. No further statements on this matter will be made by the club before that time."

West Ham have lost five out of their last six Premiership matches including both games since Magnusson became chairman - a 4-0 at Bolton on Saturday which followed a 2-0 home defeat against Wigan.

West Ham's first game without Pardew could not be much tougher — a home match against league leaders Manchester United on Sunday.

Their Christmas fixture list of matches feature games against Fulham, Portsmouth, Manchester City and Reading.

Possible successors include Alan Curbishley, who has a proven track record in the Premiership and Sven-Goran Eriksson, who has still yet to find a job since stepping down as England head coach.

Pardew said he left the club feeling proud of his achievements.

"When I took the helm they were in the Championship and struggling to find direction," he told the club's website, www.whufc.com.

"In two consecutive seasons we qualified for the play-offs, ultimately achieving the Premiership status the club so richly deserve.

"I am also proud of our first season back in the top flight in which we finished ninth and came so close to winning the FA Cup.

"The supporters have stood by me and I will always cherish memories of their support and loyalty during the difficulties of this season.

"I am proud most of all of the players, many of whom have developed into top Premiership performers under the tutelage of myself and my backroom staff."