KILMARNOCK manager Angelo Alessio has been relieved of his duties, the Ayrshire club have announced.

The Italian succeeded Steve Clarke in the Rugby Park dugout in the summer and leaves the club in fifth place in the Premiership standings.

Kilmarnock were ignomiously dumped out of the Europa League qualifiers by Connah's Quay Nomads early in Alessio's reign and the club reached the quarter-finals of the Betfred Cup before being knocked out on penalties by Hibernian.

A statement on the club's website read: "The Kilmarnock Football Club Limited can today announce that Angelo Alessio has been relieved of his position as manager.

"Everyone at the club would like to thank Angelo for his efforts during his time with Kilmarnock and we wish him every success for the future.

"Alex Dyer will take charge of first-team duties on an interim basis.

"We will provide a further update for supporters in due course."

More to follow.