体坛英语新闻：Relegation-threatened Augsburg sack coach Schmidt

BERLIN, March 9 (Xinhua) -- Augsburg have released head coach Martin Schmidt from his duties with immediate effect, the struggling Bundesliga outfit confirmed on Monday.

The "Fuggerstadter", who sit five points clear of the drop zone in 14th position, have reacted to a poor run of seven defeats from the last nine games, sacking both Schmidt and his assistant Stefan Sartori after just under a year in charge.

"It wasn't an easy decision but based on a record of only four points from nine matches we have decided to make a change in the coaching position," Augsburg's sporting director Stefan Reuter told the club's official website.

In 32 games in charge at Augsburg, Schmidt oversaw nine victories, seven draws and 16 defeats. Yesterday's 3-0 defeat to frontrunners Bayern Munich was the side's third straight defeat.

"I accept the decision of those responsible and want to express my thanks for the trust and opportunity I got here. I wish Augsburg and the team all the best," Schmidt said.

It is not yet clear who will take the helm for Augsburg's upcoming Bundesliga encounter against 7th placed Wolfsburg on Sunday.?