Grayson's departure on Wearside comes just four months after he took over at the club, who were last season relegated from the Premier League under David Moyes.

Since joining the Black Cats from Preston, Grayson managed just one win from 15 league games.

After being held by Bolton at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday night, Sunderland sit 22nd in the table, on 10 points from a possible 45.

They have failed to record a victory at home since December of last year.

Chief executive Martin Bain said: "Simon and his team have worked tirelessly to achieve the best for the football club during their time here.

"While we hoped that Simon's experience in the Football League would help us to a successful season, results have not been good enough for a club of this stature.

"In order for us to improve upon our current position, we believe a fundamental change is necessary."

Grayson's assistant Glynn Snodin has also left the Stadium of Light with the pair having presided over just 18 games, 15 of them in the league.

Sunderland are languishing in the relegation zone

Bain, on behalf of owner Ellis Short, will now launch the search for a 10th permanent manager since Roy Keane left the club less than nine years ago.

Grayson, who had enjoyed success with Preston during a spell which lasted more than four years, replaced Moyes at the helm in June knowing there would be little money to spend and with a squad unfit for purpose.

He managed to bring in Aiden McGeady, James Vaughan, Jason Steele, Robbin Ruiter, Marc Wilson and Callum McManaman at minimal cost and Brendan Galloway, Tyias Browning, Jonny Williams and Lewis Grabban on loan, but was unable to mould a winning team.

Peter Reid, Kevin Phillips and Aitor Karanka are the early favourites to take over.