Ricky Martin leaves Stoke City

Jonathan Walters, who made 271 appearances for the Potters between 2010 and 2017, has taken over the position on an interim basis until further notice.

Chairman John Coates said: “Ricky has worked tirelessly in his attempts to bring success to Stoke City, and I am appreciative of his hard work and dedication.

“With results on the field having fallen significantly short of our ambitions during the current season to date, we believe it is essential to take-on a new direction. We will run a full and robust recruitment process with immediate effect.

“Jonathan is ideally suited to the interim role and I’m thankful to him for stepping in to support Stoke City, a club I know is close to his heart, at this time.”