Inter Miami sack Phil Neville as David Beckham forced to make ruthless decision with friend

 Inter Miami have parted ways with Phil Neville following a disappointing start to the season, with Neville's former Man United team-mate David Beckham ultimately swinging the axe

Phil Neville has been ruthlessly sacked by Inter Miami after nearly two-and-a-half years at the helm.

The decision came following the club's 1-0 defeat to New York Red Bulls which left them rock bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference, with fans chanting for him to be sacked during the match.

Co-owner David Beckham, who shared a dressing room with Neville for over a decade at Manchester United, said in a statement: "When we appointed Phil we knew he would give Inter Miami his all and I have watched him work incredibly hard and with real commitment towards the ambitions we set out for the club.

"He and his family embraced Miami and he has devoted himself to the drive to bring success to the city and to our fans. Phil has made a real contribution to the culture of our club with his qualities as a leader and knowledge as a coach.

"Sometimes in this game we have to make the toughest decisions and sadly we feel the time is right to make a change. I want to personally thank Phil for his hard work, his passion for our Club and for his integrity as a person."

Neville also released a statement, which read: "I would like to thank the Inter Miami CF ownership group for their trust and making me a part of this project; the players and staff for their impressive commitment, dedication and hard work; and the fans for their unwavering support for the Club since day one.

Early reports suggest that former Barcelona manager Tata Martino is an early frontrunner to replace Neville at Miami. The appointment could significantly bolster the club's chances of landing long-term target Lionel Messi given that Martino has worked with the PSG superstar at both Barcelona and with the Argentina national side.

Meanwhile, Miami assistant coach Javier Morales has taken over as interim boss until a permanent replacement is found.