Birmingham City have sacked manager Garry Monk after he seemingly made known his disagreement with the club’s transfer policy.

Monk has been removed from his role after 16 months in charge at St Andrew’s and having guided the club to safety despite a deduction of nine points for a breach of the Football League’s profitability and sustainability rules.

The outgoing boss was reported to have told the board of his disapproval at a move which saw Jota leave for cross-city rivals Aston Villa and Gary Gardner move in the opposite direction. The Birmingham powerbrokers wasted little time in relieving Monk of his duties.

“The Board of Directors believe this to be in the long term interests of the club,” read a statement released by Birmingham. “We thank Garry for his efforts and we wish him the best for the future.

“The Board of Directors are hopeful that over time the team can adopt a fresh and modern footballing philosophy, whilst maintaining the club’s core values. “It is our intention to drive the club forward and challenge for promotion.”

Birmingham’s statement went on to reflect on the ‘significant challenges’ they are hoping to implement, with an increased focus on youth development aimed at bringing future success.

“We are certain these young players – as those in our first team already – will be hungry to succeed as we begin a new chapter,” they added.

“The board of directors feel that it is vitally important for everybody at the club to be sharing the same vision and commitment to the plans and processes.”