LATEST: After 12 games, Sunderland fires manager Michael Beale.

LONDON, February 20 — Michael Beale was fired by Sunderland yesterday, following just 12 games in command of the English Championship team.

The 43-year-old former manager of QPR and Glasgow Rangers, who took over for Tony Mowbray at the Stadium of Light on December 18, was fired after two straight losses to Birmingham and Huddersfield.

Michael’s departure from Sunderland AFC is disappointing, sporting director Kristjaan Speakman stated on the team’s official website.

“We really want to get better, but it hasn’t shown up yet. As a result, we accept full responsibility and believe that taking prompt action is beneficial for the club.

“We wish Michael the best of luck for the future; it has been a difficult few months for him.”

Mike Dodds, the assistant, will be in charge for the remainder of the campaign.

In the six games he was in the dugout for, Beale won just four and lost six, one of which was a humiliating 3-0 home loss to archrivals Newcastle in the FA Cup third round.

With 13 games left, Sunderland sits four points out of the play-off spots in the English second division, in 10th place. AFP