Coach Stuart Gray is Burnley FC caretaker manager

First-team coach Gray will be assisted by long-serving youth team coach Terry Pashley and captain Graham Alexander.

The trio will oversee Burnley’s next three games following the departure of Brian Laws as manager as the Clarets look to get back into the Championship’s top six.

Assistant manager Russ Wilcox has also left Turf Moor.

Burnley FC’s joint Operational Director Brendan Flood said: “It’s important we now look forward and remain positive and firmly focused on our challenge for promotion.

“We believe we have a very good squad of players which is capable of winning these next three games.

“We now have in place a caretaker management team of experienced people who have been in this position before and are highly qualified to lead the team.

“And with the support of the fans we believe we have a very good chance of picking up six points and making progress in the FA Cup.

“It would be great if the supporters turn up in their numbers at Turf Moor on Saturday to show their loyalty to the club and backing for the players as we all show how much we want to succeed.”

Gray, a vastly experienced manager and coach following spells with Aston Villa, Wolves and Southampton, will lead the Clarets against Sheffield United at Turf Moor on Saturday, for the trip to Reading next Monday and against Port Vale in the FA Cup third round on Saturday-week.

Meanwhile, the search for a permanent manager has begun following the end of Laws’ near 12-month reign at Turf Moor.

“The club would like to place on record its thanks to Brian and Russ,” added Flood. “They faced an immense challenge in following the former manager at a difficult time and worked tirelessly to try to achieve success.

“I believe they have improved the management structure at the club, for which we are grateful, and we wish them every success. I am certain they will be back in work soon.”