Gloucester Rugby have sacked director of rugby Nigel Davies.

The 49-year-old Welshman joined the Aviva Premiership club in summer 2012 following a four-year spell in charge of Scarlets.

Despite guiding Gloucester to the Heineken Cup in his first season at Kingsholm Stadium, a ninth-placed finish this term has seen him part company with the club.

"It has been a tremendously difficult decision to reach," read a statement from chief executive Stephen Vaughan. "Nigel is a man who I personally have come to like and respect very much during my time at the club.

"However, playing performances and results during 2013-14 were a big disappointment to everyone at the club. As a result, the board has decided that the future interests of the team would be best served with a different individual in charge of team affairs."

Gloucester finished their season on Saturday with a 28-27 defeat at relegated Worcester Warriors.