Barnsley manager Simon Davey has left the club "by mutual consent" after two-and-a-half years in charge.
The 39-year-old leaves with the Tykes claiming just one point in five Championship matches, including four defeats in their last five outings.
A club statement said: "Barnsley would like to place on record its sincere thanks for all the hard work Simon has put in during his tenure as manager.
"We would like to wish him every success in the future."
After replacing Andy Ritchie in November 2006, Davey saved the club from relegation, but Barnsley have flirted with relegation in each campaign since then.
I could be a bit sharper and a bit more mentally stronger in the games. I have contributed to the departure of the gaffer - I apologise to him
Defender Rob Kozluk
Tykes general manager Don Rowing told BBC Radio Sheffield: "We would like to thank Simon for his efforts, but unfortunately these decisions have to be made sometimes.
"We are in a results-based industry, and we have had a bad start to the season.
"This wasn't something that we'd expected after today's result. We need to take in what's happened today over the weekend, and then take it from there."
Defender Rob Kozluk said: "None of the players wanted to see it happen but it's come about. We have to look at ourselves - we're all to blame but it's the gaffer that gets it in the neck.
"I have had a terrible season - I hold my hands up. We're not on song. People have to stand up and be counted but a lot went into their shells.
"I could be a bit sharper and a bit more mentally stronger in the games. I have contributed to the departure of the gaffer - I apologise to him."
Davey managed to guide the Tykes on a remarkable FA Cup run in 2008, beating Liverpool and Chelsea before eventually bowing out to Cardiff at Wembley in the semi-final.
However, the Oakwell outfit only avoided the drop following victory at Plymouth on the final day of last term.
Following that late escape, Barnsley owner Patrick Cryne asked Davey to make a "persuasive case" for him to remain at the club.
Davey brought in four players during the summer, Andy Gray, Adam Hammill, David Preece and O'Neil Thompson, with Emil Hallfredsson arriving on loan.
But Tykes supporters' frustrations finally boiled over after the 3-1 home defeat to Reading, with demonstrations against Davey.
Despite Gray scoring his first goal for Barnsley, Reading eventually eased to victory, piling the pressure on the beleaguered boss.
"We are as disappointed as them (the fans). We don't like losing. I am there with their frustration," Davey said in the aftermath of the game before his departure.
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