Gary O'Neil sacked by Bournemouth in shock decision after keeping Cherries in Premier League

In a surprise move, AFC Bournemouth have confirmed that they have parted ways with manager Gary O'Neil after he guided them to safety in the Premier League. O'Neil was hired at the end of August when the club fired Scott Parker and after impressing on a caretaker basis, he was given a contract until the end of the season with an option for a further 12 months.

Ad The Cherries won ten games under O'Neil and drew a further six to secure their Premier League safety with four games to spare. Premier LeaguePL fixtures: City start defence against Kompany's Burnley, Chelsea to face Liverpool15/06/2023 AT 08:02 However the club confirmed on Monday morning that they would move on from O'Neil.

A statement read: «We can today confirm we have parted company with head coach Gary O'Neil. »Gary leaves the club after overseeing 37 matches last season, initially on an interim basis before being formally appointed to his first head coaching role in November.

«A return of 10 wins and six draws in the Premier League was enough to maintain the club's position in the top flight, effectively securing survival with four matches remaining following a memorable run of results in April.» AFC Bournemouth owner and chairman Bill Foley told the club's website: «Gary's achievement last season is one I will always be grateful for. This has been a difficult decision, but it has been made with great consideration to best position ourselves ahead of the coming season.