Sheffield United have announced that they have sacked manager Nigel Clough.

The 49-year-old leaves Bramall Lane after the Blades failed to win promotion from League One this season, losing to Swindon Town in the playoff semi-finals 7-6 on aggregate.

Former Derby County boss Clough took charge of United in October 2013 and led them away from the foot of the League One table, in addition to last year's FA Cup semi-finals and the League Cup semi-finals this term.

"Sheffield United today announce that Nigel Clough, the club's first team manager, and his management staff, are to leave Bramall Lane with immediate effect following the decision by the board that a change in direction was necessary for the forthcoming season," a statement on the club's website read.

"The search for the club's new first team manager will now start and it is hoped that this will result in identifying and recruiting the right candidate within a relatively short period of time.

"The Club would like to place on record its thanks to Nigel, as well as his backroom staff of Gary Crosby, Andy Garner, Martin Taylor, Simon Clough, Michael Forsyth and Matt Brown for their contribution to the club during their time at Bramall Lane and wish them all well for their future."

United finished fifth in the League One table this season.