Schalke 04 boss Frank Kramer sacked after torrid start to Bundesliga season and DFB Pokal thrashing

Schalke have won just one of their opening 10 league games this season. What's more, they were dumped out of the cup on Tuesday following a 5-1 thrashing away in Hoffenheim.

The Gelsenkirchen club have also lost four games in a row in the Bundesliga, conceding 11 goals and scoring two during the torrid run.

Schalke's sole victory this season came against Bochum last month. Since then, the club have struggled for result and suffered a number of heavy losses.

Sporting director Rouven Schroeder said in a statement: "After achieving promotion last season, our goal for the new campaign was to remain in the Bundesliga.

"Until recently we were convinced that we could turn things around with the current coaching setup, but from our point of view, we've now reached a point in time that we have to make a change.

"In the remaining five league games ahead of longer than usual World Cup break, we need to pick up points to put us in the best possible position for what is a hugely important second half of the season for the club."

Board member Peter Knabel added: "The way that we've been playing, especially in the away games against Leverkusen and Hoffenheim, is not worthy of FC Schalke 04.

"This analysis stretches beyond just the head coach as an individual. We need to improve significantly in all areas to be able to achieve our common objective for the season - remaining in the Bundesliga."

Next up for Schalke is an away trip to the capital as they take on Hertha Berlin.