Argyle struggled under Williamson in the Championship

The ex-Hibernian boss, 43, took over at Home Park in April 2004, towards the end of their promotion season, after Paul Sturrock left for Southampton.

But after finishing 17th last season, Argyle have made a poor start despite plenty of new signings, including Nigerian defender Taribo West.

Coach Jocky Scott has been put in temporary charge of the first team.

Williamson has become the first managerial casualty of the English league season.

Former Aston Villa and Derby manager John Gregory - who had a two-game spell as Plymouth's caretaker boss in 1990 - has already been linked with the post, as has Tony Pulis, who was sacked by Stoke in the summer.