Everton confirm Roberto Martinez has been sacked as manager

Everton have confirmed that Roberto Martinez has left his role as manager after a three-year spell in charge at Goodison Park.

It was widely reported this afternoon that the Merseyside outfit had wielded the axe prior to Sunday's final game of the season at home to Norwich City.

In the last few months, the Spaniard has been under increasing pressure from disgruntled supporters, some of whom displayed banners reading, 'Martinez Out' during matches.

Everton finished a disappointing 11th last season, but they could end the 2015-16 campaign in a worse position as they are currently 12th in the standings after just one win in eight.

Martinez guided the team to the semi-finals of the League Cup and FA Cup, but losing both of them added more weight to the 42-year-old's shoulders.

A statement from the Merseyside club read: "Everton Football Club regrets to announce that Roberto Martinez has left his position as first-team manager with immediate effect.

The chairman and the board of directors would like to place on record their thanks for the dedication and commitment Roberto has shown during his three seasons with the club. Roberto has been a great ambassador for the club, conducting himself, at all times, with the utmost integrity and dignity.

"He secured the club its highest ever Premier League points total, a place in the last 16 of the Europa League and appearances in both domestic cup semi-finals. He has also played a key role in the development of several young players, managing their progression to the Everton first team and International honours."

In 37 league games this season, Everton lost 13, drew 14 and won just 10, but the final nail in the coffin appeared to be Wednesday night's 3-0 defeat to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.