Portsmouth's League One rivals Blackpool sack manager Simon Grayson

Pompey’s League One rivals have confirmed the 50-year-old has been ‘relieved of his duties as first-team manager’.

Despite starting the season brightly – with the Blues being held to a 1-1 draw at Bloomfield Road in August – the Seasiders have been in lacklustre form of late.

They’ve won just once in their past 12 games and suffered a 3-2 home loss to Gillingham last night.

Although Grayson recruited 12 new players during the January transfer window, he’s been axed with Blackpool slipping to 15th in the table.

A club statement read: ‘Blackpool Football Club can confirm that Simon Grayson has today been relieved of his duties as first-team manager.

‘The club would like to thank Simon for his efforts during his time back at Bloomfield Road and wish him well for the future.

‘A further announcement will follow in due course.’

Blackpool travel to Fratton Park on Monday, April 13.