Francesco Guidolin has been sacked by Swansea City and replaced by ex-USA national coach Bob Bradley.

The Italian was axed on his 61st birthday and just months after being handed a two-year deal after helping save the club last summer.

Wales and Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs was also interviewed for the job, but the new American owners have opted for Bradley.

Guidolin paid the price for the Swans disappointing start to the season – they are 17th with four points from seven games.

Chairman Huw Jenkins confirmed: “We are obviously disappointed to part company with Francesco.

“We felt he deserved his opportunity after the work he did last season.

“Unfortunately we have not been able to carry performances over from last season and we felt we needed to change things as soon as possible in order to move forward in a positive way.

“We would like to thank Francesco and his staff for their services to the club and wish them well for the future.”

Bradley, 58, also managed Egypt and in the MLS and had been managing Le Havre in the French second division.

Jenkins added: “We are delighted Bob has agreed to join us.

“He is highly regarded as a coach and has a wealth of experience on the international and domestic front.

“He is well aware of the club’s footballing philosophy and will provide us with strong leadership qualities and a renewed belief to compete at this level.

“It is never easy changing managers, but we are looking at a long-term appointment and we are confident Bob can settle us down and stabilise matters on and off the pitch.”