Former Charlton Athletic defender sacked by League One rivals

Former Charlton Athletic defender Matt Taylor has been sacked by Bristol Rovers.

The Gas suffered a third straight League One loss at the weekend as they were defeated 2-0 by Birmingham City.

Taylor was appointed a year ago. Former Crystal Palace player Wayne Carlisle, his assistant, has also left his post.

Bristol Rovers posted a statement. It said: “The club would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Matt and Wayne for all their hard work during their time with Bristol Rovers, and we wish them both every success in their respective future careers.

“David Horseman and Lee Cattermole will take interim responsibility for first-team football duties while the club undertakes a thorough recruitment process for a new first-team manager.”

Taylor, 42, was signed by the Addicks in 2011 on a free transfer from Exeter City.