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Forest Green Rovers boss Troy Deeney has been sacked after just six games in charge of the League Two side.

Deeney, who was in his first managerial role, apologised earlier this week for criticising his own players following defeat by Harrogate, saying he allowed his emotions to get the better of him.

Rovers are seven points from safety at the bottom of League Two.

Deeney was appointed head coach on 20 December following the sacking of David Horseman.

He had joined the Gloucestershire team in a player-coach role last summer.

Rovers chairman Dale Vince said: "These are decisions nobody likes to make, but we have acted this way to give Forest Green Rovers the best possible chance of improving results and climbing the league table.

"We wish Troy all the best for the future and thank him for his efforts."

The former Watford and Birmingham captain lost three and drew the other three of his matches in charge.

Speaking after their defeat by Harrogate, he said there were "too many babies" in his squad, adding that he would rather watch Antiques Roadshow.

He also singled out defender Fankaty Dabo, calling his performance "awful".

And on Thursday he was handed a four-match touchline ban.

Deeney was charged by the Football Association with using "improper and/or abusive and/or threatening behaviour and/or language" after he was shown shown a red card late on in their defeat by Swindon on 29 December.

An independent regulatory commission also fined him £1,500.