Wolverhampton Wanderers have sacked head coach Gary O’Neil following a dismal performance in the Premier League. The decision came after a last-minute 2-1 defeat to Ipswich Town, marking the team’s fourth straight loss.

Wolves are now in 19th place in the Premier League, only four points above Southampton, who have a game in hand. The team has struggled this season, conceding a league-high 40 goals in just 16 matches. O’Neil’s departure follows a four-year contract extension he signed in August, after leading the club to a 14th-place finish last season.

In a statement, Wolves chairman Jeff Shi thanked O’Neil for his dedication and hard work. “We’re very grateful to Gary for all of his effort, dedication and hard work during his time at the club,” Shi said.

With O’Neil gone, the club is reportedly in talks with Portuguese coach Vitor Pereira, who is currently at Al Shabab in the Saudi Pro League. Pereira has a strong coaching background, including previous roles at Porto and Fenerbahce.

O’Neil’s firing makes him the third Premier League head coach to be dismissed this season, joining Erik ten Hag of Manchester United and Steve Cooper of Leicester City.

Wolves will face a tough challenge next, as they prepare for an away match against Leicester City on December 22. The team will also face Manchester United and Tottenham later in the month, adding to the pressure on the club as they seek to turn their season