Birmingham City have sacked manager Scott Booth after five months in charge.

The Blues, who replaced former boss Carla Ward with Booth after she resigned, are currently second from bottom in the Women's Super League.

They have lost six of their opening seven WSL games and only Leicester City are below them.

In a statement

, Birmingham said the decision to sack Booth "has not been taken lightly".

The statement added: "In light of recent results, the club has concluded that now is the appropriate time for a change of personnel to ensure the team keeps moving forward in a manner aligned with Blues' ambitions."

Former Scotland striker Booth signed a three-year contract with Birmingham in June after leaving Glasgow City, a club he led to six SWPL 1 titles and two Scottish Cups in six years.

Birmingham assistant head coach Tony Elliott will be in charge for Sunday's trip to champions Chelsea.

The club said the the search for a new manager "will be conducted by senior staff, including technical director Craig Gardner".

What has gone wrong at Birmingham?

It is understood Booth was called into a meeting with board representatives on Thursday and it was a surprise to him and his staff that he was sacked.

The club are said to have been disappointed with Birmingham's form this season, in particular recent defeats against rivals Aston Villa and West Ham.

Birmingham are operating with the lowest player budget in the WSL.

Last season, their players complained about a lack of player care, poor facilities and a lack of investment.

BBC Sport understands that players have continued to raise concerns this season through a leadership group.

It is understood Booth has faced challenges on improving changing room facilities, which are often shared with youth teams, as well as arranging dining areas for the players and being restricted on the use of gyms.