SOUTHEND United have become the second side in Sky Bet League One's relegation battle to sack their manager in the space of three days.

Chris Powell's contract has been terminated this morning, following an 11-game winless run.

The Shrimpers have slipped to 20th position, outside of the relegation zone on goal difference.

Academy chief Ricky Duncan has been placed in temporary charge.

Oxford United remain in the battle, but back-to-back wins have opened up a four-point cushion on the bottom four in 13th place.

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It comes in the wake of Scunthorpe United's decision on Sunday to make a change, replacing Stuart McCall with caretaker boss Andy Dawson.

After one win in seven games they are only two points better off than Southend.

It means six of the division's bottom seven have changed their manager at least once this season- Walsall being the exception.