Stuttgart sack manager Hannes Wolf following defeat by Schalke

Stuttgart have sacked manager Hannes Wolf following Saturday's 2-0 defeat by Schalke.

The German club announced on Sunday morning that they would be parting ways with the 36-year-old, who led them to promotion back to the Bundesliga last season.

The defeat by visitors Schalke - the club's sixth loss in the last seven games - leaves Stuttgart hovering precariously above the relegation zone, in 15th place with 20 points from 20 games played.

The club have revealed a meeting was held in the immediate aftermath of the tie and, after prolonged deliberation, the decision was made to relieve Wolf of his duties.

"Following intensive discussions yesterday evening, which continued on late into the night as the current sporting situation was analysed, the decision was made that Hannes Wolf would no longer continue as head-coach of VfB Stuttgart," a statement read.

"After this discussion we all came to the conclusion that the danger of turning the corner under the current structure was too great and a new impulse was needed to get back on track," sports director Michael Reschke added.

The club said Wolf's replacement will be named in the coming days.