Former Blackburn Rovers manager Michael Appleton was sacked by Charlton Athletic less than 30 minutes after their latest defeat.

Pressure has been growing on the former Blackpool and Lincoln City coach at The Valley after a 12-game winless run. Appleton only took the reigns from Dean Holden in September.

That leaves the Addicks looking for a third permanent manager of the season before the end of January. They sit 16th in the League One standings, only four points above the relegation zone.

Charlton conceded in the 97th minute to lose 3-2 at home to Northampton Town on Tuesday night which proved to be the final straw. Appleton was dismissed less than half an hour after the full-time whistle.

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"Charlton Athletic can confirm that Michael Appleton has left the club with immediate effect after being relieved of his role as head coach," the club said in a short statement.

"The club would like to thank Michael for his efforts during his time in charge."

Michael Duff, formerly Barnsley’s head coach, has been installed as the early favourite with the bookmakers. He was dismissed himself earlier on in the campaign, being relieved of his duties at Swansea City.

SE7 Partners, headed by former Sunderland director Charlie Methven, took over the club in July from Danish businessman Thomas Sandgaard.

Sandgaard, who bought the club from unpopular owners East Street Investments in September 2020, was unable to turn Charlton's fortunes and also grew unpopular with supporters.

The club have struggled to find any form of success on the field and have dismissed the likes of Lee Bowyer, Nigel Adkins, Johnnie Jackson and Ben Garner in recent years since dropping to the third tier.

Appleton was sacked by Rovers over a decade ago in 2013 after three months in charge at Ewood Park. The coach only lasted 67 days and 15 matches before he was dismissed, winning only four times.