Ayr United have sacked Jim Duffy as manager of the club after less than three months in charge.

Duffy joined the club in the summer as part of David Hopkin's backroom team.

When Hopkin left the club in September, Duffy took charge on an interim basis.

His spell in the hotseat began with an upturn in form as the side picked up wins over Dunfermline, Hamilton and Rangers B.

He was offered the managerial position on a full time basis off the back of those results as the club began to slowly climb the Scottish Championship table. 

However, the team's recent form has seen them win just once in 12 league matches.

Saturday's 3-0 defeat to Queen of the South at Palmerston left Ayr languishing in eighth place, just two points ahead of bottom side Morton.

The club broke the news in a statement saying: "Ayr United announces the departure of Jim Duffy & John Joyce from their respective positions of First Team Manager & First Team Coach.

"Both Jim and John joined Ayr United in March alongside Manager David Hopkin and stepped up when asked to take on additional responsibilities when David left in September.

The Board of Directors would like to thank Jim and John for their efforts throughout their time at the Club and wish them every success for the future.

"Davie White will take interim charge of all First Team matters, assisted by Tommy Tait and Thomas Donovan with Dave Timmins remaining on the coaching staff.

"The process of identifying a new Head Coach for Ayr United is underway and Managing Director Graeme Mathie will provide an update to supporters on Black & White TV later today."