BLACKBURN ROVERS have parted ways with manager Owen Coyle following the club's FA Cup exit to Manchester United.

The former Burnley, Bolton and Wigan boss from Paisley took over at Ewood Park last summer after a spell in MLS with Houston Dynamo.

Rovers were knocked out of the cup by United over the weekend and lie in 23rd place in the Championship, three points off safety.

A club statement read: "Blackburn Rovers wish to announce that manager Owen Coyle has left his role at Ewood Park by mutual agreement.

"Assistant manager Sandy Stewart, first team coach John Henry and goalkeeping coach Phil Hughes have also left the club.

"The decision has been taken in order to give the club the best possible chance of climbing to a position of safety in the Championship in the remaining 15 games, which starts with the big trip to Burton Albion on Friday night.

"The club would like to place on record its thanks to Owen and his staff for all their efforts this season and we wish them well for the future.

"The search for a new manager will begin with immediate effect.

"No further comments will be made at this stage"