Gillingham Football Club has sacked its manager this afternoon.

Steve Lovell has been relieved of his duties according to a statement posted on the club's website.

Mark Patterson will take responsibility for the game against Charlton tomorrow.

The former defensive stalwart-turned longtime club coach will also be in charge of the Blackpool next week.

The game against Charlton tomorrow is their last home game of the season and Blackpool will be their final game of the season.

The team secured league one safety over the Easter weekend with four points from their two games.

Watch Lovell quizzed on next season a day before his sacking

A statement on the club's website said: "After a discussion between the chairman and manager this afternoon, the club can confirm that Steve Lovell has been relieved of his duties with immediate effect.

"Mark Patterson will take responsibility for the game against Charlton tomorrow, and Blackpool next week.

"The club would like to thank Steve for his efforts with the team over the past 18 months and wish him well for the future."

"There will be no further comment at this stage."

What do you think? Were the club right?