Soccer: Fulham fires manager Martin Jol

Martin Jol is out of a job. Photo / AP

Fulham fired manager Martin Jol today after a disappointing start to the Premier League season.

Fulham is in 18th place and in the relegation zone following a 3-0 loss to West Ham on Sunday, having earned just 10 points from 13 games.

Fulham said in a statement today that owner and chairman Shahid Khan, who bought the team this year, made the decision to part ways with Jol. The club said first-team coach Rene Meulensteen will take over with immediate effect, and will be in charge for the game against Tottenham on Thursday.

"Our poor form and results this season are undeniable, and Fulham supporters deserve better," Khan said. "With more than half the season still ahead, an immediate change was necessary."

Jol took over Fulham in 2011, having previously managed Tottenham for three seasons in the Premier League before being sacked in October 2007. He has also coached Bundesliga club Hamburger SV and Dutch team Ajax.

The Dutchman failed to rejuvenate Fulham, however, after taking over from Mark Hughes. The team finished ninth in the Premier League in his first season in charge, but was 12th in the last campaign and has won just three games so far this season.

"It was a privilege to manage Fulham, one of the great clubs in the Premier League or anywhere in the world," Jol said in Fulham's statement. "I am disappointed in this season but know there are better days ahead for Fulham and its supporters. I will always treasure my experience here and want to thank Mr. Khan and everyone at Fulham for the opportunity."

Meulensteen was hired as first-team coach in November, having previously worked under Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

"I appreciate the faith Mr. Khan has put in me and will do my very best to honor his trust," Meulensteen said. "We aim to get Fulham back on track, starting Wednesday night."