Bournemouth part company with manager Scott Parker

Bournemouth have sacked head coach Scott Parker following Saturday’s 9-0 Premier League defeat at Liverpool.

Parker led the Cherries to promotion from the Championship in his first season in charge and they marked their Premier League return with a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on the opening day.

However, Bournemouth have since suffered three successive defeats against Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool, conceding 16 goals without reply.

The club’s co-owner Maxim Demin said: “I would like to place on record my gratitude to Scott and his team for their efforts during their time with us. Our promotion back to the Premier League last season under his tenure will always be remembered as one of the most successful seasons in our history.

“However, in order for us to keep progressing as a team and a club as a whole, it is unconditional that we are aligned in our strategy to run the club sustainably.

“We must also show belief in and respect for one another. That is the approach that has brought this club so much success in recent history, and one that we will not veer from now.

“Our search for a new head coach will begin immediately.”

Gary O’Neil will take interim charge of the team ahead of Wednesday’s home game against Wolves, assisted by Shaun Cooper and Tommy Elphick.

Demin’s comments appear to be a response to Parker’s post-match interview at Anfield after the Premier League record-equalling defeat.

Parker said that he was “not surprised” at the result and that his side was “underequipped” to compete in the top flight.

“The players need help,” said Parker after Saturday’s loss. “Today proved too big a challenge. The levels were far too big.

“We’ve got a decision to make as a club. There will be days like this. Time will tell. It’s a huge disappointment, a real humbling experience.

“We have some days where hopefully we can get some help in and support and help the current team who came up from the Championship.”